Peter Pan Gender Roles

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As a society, we have constructed gender roles which we associate to both male and female. These roles are depicted in various ways throughout our daily lives and even before we are born. Growing up we are read stories and watch movies that help mold the perceptions we have today. For example, I grew up watching Disney films, mainly the ones that involved the princesses. Why you may ask, well because that is what girls are supposed to according to our society. Although almost everything we watch has clear depictions of gender roles, I have chosen to analyze the gender roles in Peter Pan; more specifically the actions of Mr. and Mrs. Darling, Wendy, and Peter.
We typically associate men with being the parent that provides the main source of income for a family, although that is not be …show more content…

M. Barrie introducing Peter. Although he is not aging, we do see possess the characteristics of a man. He is a leader, protects the Lost Boys, Wendy, John, and Michael, and provides for them. Peter is much like George since he is the father figure for the Lost Boys. Peter’s leadership is evident in the song “Following the Leader”. The lyrics say, “We’re following the leader wherever he may go/we won’t be home till morning, till morning/because he told us so”. The lyrics show that the boys listen to Peter because he has been self appointed as the leader and in charge of their well being. He also disciplines the lost boys like George disciplined Nana. When Tootles accidentally shoots the “Wendy Bird”, he looks to Peter for punishment. He is also independent, unlike the Lost Boys who are usually together; Peter will venture from the homestead. When Wendy and her brother get captured by the pirates he is their savior. Peter exemplifies the masculine stereotype of strength when he has a battle with James Hook and his pirates and ultimately defeats them. Peter is a prime example of how gender roles are prevalent at any

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