Media representations

Question 1

Hall representation:

Answer 1

Hall argues that producers (who are part of the hegemonic elite)
‘fix’ the preferred meaning into media products. Over time, these
representations can become stereotypes through naturalisation
which might lead to a lack of diversity in the representations.

Question 2

Gauntlett identity:

Answer 2

Gauntlett argues that identity is complicated – audiences pick and
mix which aspects of a media text they want to construct their
identity, whole leaving other bits out.

Question 3

Van Zoonen Feminism:

Answer 3

Van Zoonen argues that stereotypical gender representations are constructed in the media, where the female body is objectified for male pleasure, reinforcing western patriarchal attitudes. Stereotypical gender representations might lead to women being oppressed.

Question 4

Butler Gender performativity:

Answer 4

Butler argues that gender is a construct and therefore
performative; constructed through a number of ‘rituals’ and ‘acts’
which become normalised over time. Representation of heteronormative femininity or masculinity can lead to ‘gender
trouble’ for those audiences who do not fit within those identities.

Question 5

hooks Intersectionality:

Answer 5

hooks argues that feminism is a movement to end patriarchy and
sexism. Women who have more than one ‘intersection’ (defined by
gender, race, class and sexuality) to their identity might find it difficult
to find representation in mainstream media.

Question 6

Gilroy Postcolonialism:

Answer 6

Gilroy argues that colonisation has had an immense impact on how
ethnic minorities are represented in modern media where the media creates an ‘us and them’ narrative or ‘othering’ ethnic minorities. He
argues that this misrepresentation can lead to the postcolonial melancholia (the sadness experienced by ethnic minorities who are unfairly represented).