Identities: Feminist theory and blog task

Feminism: blog task

 

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

There is the reinforcement of the ideas that men and women are divided, also linking to the traditional idea that women belong in the domestic household to cook, clean e.t.c. The idea of the roles being socially constructed rather than biological is emphasised by the  failure to do some acts such as cooking.

2) Would McRobbie view Beyonce as an empowering role model for women? Why?

McRobbie may view Beyonce as an empowering role model for women as she is showing an unsuccesfull attempt at conforming to stereotypical roles such as cooking a cleaning. Possibly highlighting to the audience that these attributes don't make or break a woman. Furthermore in terms of objectification, this isn't an example of a man viewing the women as a sexual object, she is sexualising herself with the use of body language, costume and camera angles herself whilst also showing alternative roles typical of a domestic housewife.

3) What are your OWN views on this debate – does Beyonce empower women or reinforce the traditional ‘male gaze’ (Mulvey)?

I think that this video reinforces the traditional male gaze as I think that some shot angles and costumes were unnecessary and had no real connection to the video if it was to subvert stereotypes. Sexuality is still a prevailing factor used to appeal to a wider audience using the appropriate gaze.