Feminist theory

    FEMINIST THEORY:


1) What examples are provided from the two texts of the 'male gaze' (Mulvey)?

  • Text One: Mulvey discusses how in classical Hollywood cinema, women are often presented as objects of desire for both the male characters within the film and the male audience outside of it. This objectification causes women to be seen as objects to be looked at, fulfilling the desires and fantasies of the male viewer.
  • Text Two: Mulvey points out how the camera's perspective in many films aligns with the perspective of a heterosexual male viewer, emphasising the male gaze. This perspective often positions women as objects to be looked at and desired, reinforcing traditional gender roles and power dynamics


2) Do texts such as these show there is no longer a need for feminism or are they simply sexism in a different form?

These texts demonstrate that feminism is still necessary as they reveal sexism in a different form, presented through the male gaze in media and culture.

3) Choose three words/phrases from the glossary of the article and write their definitions on your blog.

  • Feminism - gender, rights, equality
  • Post Feminism - choice, empowerment, diversity

Now read The Theory Drop: Gender Performativity (MM69, page 25) and answer the following questions.

1) How does the writer suggest gender performativity is established from a young age?

The writer suggests that gender performativity is established from a young age through:

  • Family dynamics
  • Media influence
  • Peer interactions
  • Educational systems

2) What does the phrase 'non-binary' refer to and how does it link to Butler's theory?

"Non-binary" refers to individuals whose gender identity does not fit exclusively within the categories of male or female. This concept aligns with Judith Butler's theory by challenging gender categories and emphasising the difference in nature of gender.

3) How and why does the media help reinforce gender stereotypes? The writer provides several examples in the final section of the article.
  • Depicting women primarily as caregivers or objects of desire.
  • Presenting men as dominant, aggressive, or emotionally aggressive.
  • Reinforcing beauty standards that prioritise thinness and youth for women.
  • Associating certain colours, toys, and activities with specific genders

Music video analysis

Finally, write up our analysis of the two music videos we studied in class. This is your opportunity to develop your own opinions on these crucial media debates.

Watch the Beyonce video for ‘Why Don’t You Love Me?’ again: 



1) How might this video contribute to Butler’s idea that gender roles are a ‘performance’?

In Beyoncé's "Why Don't You Love Me" video, she exaggerates and subverts traditional gender roles, highlighting their change in nature. This contributes to Butler's idea that gender is not assigned at birth but rather a performance.

2) What might van Zoonen suggest regarding the representation of women in this video?

Van Zoonen might suggest that Beyoncé's "Why Don't You Love Me" video portrays women in both traditional and subversive roles, reflecting and challenging societal expectations simultaneously.

3) What are YOUR views on this debate – does Beyonce empower women or reinforce the traditional ‘male gaze’ and oppression of women? 

I think Beyonce is trying to help empower women but has received a lot of backlash for it.

Watch Will Jay's video for ‘Gangsta’ again:



1) How does the video suggest representations of masculinity have changed in recent years?

Masculinity has evolved over time, with different understandings moving away from stereotypes towards more diverse and happy expressions. Modern masculinity often emphasises emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and inclusivity, challenging traditional views of men and dominance. Men are increasingly encouraged to embrace qualities traditionally associated with femininity, taking on more healthier and more authentic expressions of gender identity.

2) What does David Gauntlett suggest about representations of men in the media over the last 20 years?

David Gauntlett suggests that representations of men in the media over the last 20 years have become more diverse and complex, reflecting a shift away from narrow stereotypes towards more accepting portrayals of masculinity.

3) What is YOUR view on the representation of men and masculinity? Are young men still under pressure from the media to act or behave in a certain way?

I believe men should be able to express emotions without being judged for being seen as too emotional, However I do also believe a lot of men's jobs are to provide and protect for their family and therefore struggle with mental health issues due to it.

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