Stereotypes In Save The Last Dance

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Further to stereotypes, the dance styles seen in Save The Last Dance portray traditional gender norms which are prescribed within society. The idea of masculinity, where males must possess qualities traditionally associated with men, such as being dominant, competitive, strong and aggressive, compared to the passionate and beautiful physicality for female dancers is very prominent within the two different dance styles in the film (Ravaldi). Hip-hop which is the main style of dance in the film, is characterized as hyper masculine, defined by the exaggeration of male stereotypical behaviour (). This is evident as we see many of the male characters at STEPPS who womanize and exhibit consistent aggression or self-proclaimed invulnerability. The choreography consists of …show more content…

This feminine sport requires the perfect body type, needing flexibility and grace to achieve the grand jete, firebird leap, pas de chat and tour jete(). Males who dance ballet are often challenged and questioned on their sexuality and masculinity because of this "female" world. A study revealed that male ballet dancers often experienced themes of homophobic stereotypes, narrow definitions of masculinity, heterosexist justifications for participating and an absence of a male role in their life (Haltom). A study also analyzing parental versus non parental views on gender stereotypic activities found that it is more acceptable for girls to take on a boys role than a boy portraying a girls role (Killen). This may be why Sara had begun dancing ballet in the first place. These studies also back up the fact that we do not see any males dancing ballet in the film, but it is okay for Sara to dance both ballet and hip-hop. This is very evident as Derek is exposed to Sara's ballet, but never once tries to attempt any of the steps, thus reinforcing the gender norm that ballet can only be danced by

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