Disney Media Representation Research Paper

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INTRODUCTION

There is limited literature offering specific theories that clearly explicate the connection between mediated representation of genders and audience identity, yet some conceptual resources can be used to address the relationship between media representation and its impact on the way the audience perceives the self. Before looking at the theoretical foundation of media representation of genders, I will provide a brief description of how genders and identity are constructed in history.

A major factor contributing to the longevity of gender roles is cultural hegemony. Within this system, binary thinking of masculinity and femininity is fundamental to the constitution of sex roles and later the conceptual development of gender role …show more content…

The representation of identity by the media is considered gendered and racialized. This is most evident in the portrait of characters in Disney films, where the princess is often depicted as frail, feeble, domestic and most importantly, sexually appealing; for evidence, Cinderella always wears a headband on her head, Little Mermaid is presented in bedazzling jewellery, and Snow White in clean and shiny dresses with full makeup. On the other hand, Disney princes are often presented as heroic, strong, reliable, and always coming along in shining armour ready to save the princess in vain. The depiction of these notorious female images persisted across times indicating what is normal, expected and what is not permissible for a girl to display. Of course the progress made in gender characterization has changed over time, with considerable adjustment made in the development of women’s roles in Disney movies as current times have proven gender expectations to be more complex and fluid. However it is more of a stigmatized manner compared to the ubiquitous depiction of a standard Disney princess. The 1998 film Mulan received critical acclaims for its seemingly progressive gender roles, featuring a courageous female character who dared to enlist in the army under the disguise of a young boy in order to flight for her country. But in the end Mulan happily accepted the romantic …show more content…

The main Giddens’ theme is how the practice of everyday life actions produces a set of expectations which make up social forces and social structures. Social Learning Theory suggests we imitate and take on behaviour that we observe and this process is reinforced by learning that “socially approved-of behaviour will be well-received and should be continued; whereas socially inappropriate actions will not get a good reception and so will be cut from our repertoire” (Gauntlett, p.38). Combined this with humans’ faith in the coherence of daily life experience and their emotional investment in the world as they expect it, the performance of gender appears here as something learned and policed, and which has to be constantly worked on and

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