**Weak men sacrificing future generations for their own greed is the thread connecting the family’s story to America’s.** Jack’s pursuit of status comes at the expense of his wife and son, and ultimately Halloran. The hotel surrounds that violence with the symbols, wealth, and cultural trophies of a country built through the same choices.
American Culture is such a huge part of The Shining it can practically be treated as its own invisible character. From the flags, products, and furnishings to the way people speak about work, family, and success, America is present throughout the film. These are the signs that build the larger American History & American Culture narrative.