"Bread and Circuses: Theories of Mass Culture As Social Decay" by Patrick Brantlinger is a 1984 literary criticism book that delves into the relationship between civilization and mass culture. Published by Cornell University Press, this hardcover book explores the impact of media studies, sociology, and semiotics on social decay. With a focus on the topic of civilization, media studies, and sociology, this 312-page book presents theories on how mass culture influences society negatively. Brantlinger's work offers a unique perspective on the role of mass culture in shaping social decay, making it a valuable addition to any literary criticism, history, or social science collection.