MIGRAIN: Feminist theory

Alezey

FEMINIST THEORY

 Media Magazine reading - two articles on feminism and theory

- Playing With The Past: Post-feminism and the Media (MM40, page 64) :

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

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 suggest that feminism is still needed because they continue to reinforce traditional gender stereotypes rather than challenge them. Women are often shown in passive or limited roles, which reflects sexism in a more subtle form. For example, Pan Am presents women in a way that is designed to appeal to men, while Beyoncé’s text links women closely to domestic responsibilities. This shows that although sexism may appear more modern, it still exists, meaning feminism remains relevant.

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

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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?

Gender performativity is shown to be developed from a young age through outside influences rather than biology. From early childhood, children are encouraged to make certain choices, such as the colours they like or the toys they play with, which are then seen as “natural.” Because these behaviours are introduced so early, they are often mistaken as nature instead of nurture.

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

Non-binary means someone who doesn’t see themselves as just male or female. It connects to Butler’s theory because it shows that gender isn’t set in stone – it’s something society shapes and people perform, not just something you’re born with.

3) How and why does the media help reinforce gender stereotypes? The writer provides several examples in the final section of the article.

The media reinforces gender stereotypes by using them as a quick way to get ideas across, especially in films and TV shows. Since people have learned these stereotypes from a young age, it makes it easier for audiences to understand the story without much explanation.

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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. If you're not sure on any of these theories, look at the theory notes above to help you.

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

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

The video shows Beyoncé performing exaggerated feminine roles, such as the 1950s housewife. By making these roles obvious and stylised, the video suggests that femininity is something that is acted out rather than natural.

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

Van Zoonen might argue that the video presents a mixed representation of women. Beyoncé appears powerful and confident, which suggests empowerment, but she is also sexualised, which reinforces traditional gender expectations.

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

In my view, Beyoncé mostly empowers women by taking control of her image and exaggerating stereotypes to criticise them. However, the use of sexualised imagery means the male gaze is still present, making the representation complicated.