Cap2 Flashcards
What role do representations of gender, class, race, and power dynamics play in television products?
They shape audience perceptions of social realities, reinforcing or challenging dominant ideologies.
These representations are constructed through narrative, character development, and visual codes.
How does the representation of women in Peaky Blinders primarily manifest?
Through patriarchal and gendered lenses, with some subversive portrayals.
This includes characters like Grace Burgess and Polly Gray.
What initial role does Grace Burgess embody in Peaky Blinders?
She is positioned as a sexual object, described by male characters as ‘too pretty’.
Her entrance to The Garrison Pub visually underscores her distinctiveness.
What aspect of Grace Burgess’s character reveals her complexity?
Her determination to secure a job and request to sing for the men.
This highlights her agency despite being sexualized.
What duality exists in Grace’s representation in Peaky Blinders?
A tension between traditional femininity and her subversion of these norms.
This foreshadows her role as a more powerful figure.
What role does Polly Gray play in Peaky Blinders?
She embodies a complex matriarchal role, blending traditional femininity and post-feminist sensibilities.
Her character takes on maternal responsibilities and assumes power during World War I.
How does Polly Gray challenge stereotypes of women in Peaky Blinders?
By portraying her as a strong, independent, and ruthless leader.
This contrasts with the notion of women as merely passive caregivers.
What visual techniques reinforce Polly Gray’s authority in Peaky Blinders?
Low-angle shots and physical actions, such as slapping her nephew John.
These techniques assert her dominance within the family.
How is masculinity constructed in Peaky Blinders?
Through characters like Tommy Shelby, representing traditional masculinity that is dominant and aggressive.
His style includes sharp suits and a readiness for violence.
What does Tommy Shelby’s character reflect in terms of masculinity?
He reflects the archetypal working-class gangster.
His character combines toughness with a violent demeanor.
What emotional depth does Tommy’s character in Peaky Blinders reveal?
PTSD from World War I, indicating complexity beyond the tough guy persona
This complexity critiques traditional violent masculinity through his inner turmoil and traumas.
How does Peaky Blinders challenge the glorification of violence?
Through the portrayal of Tommy’s emotional conflicts and vulnerabilities
This adds nuance to representations of men as emotionally conflicted anti-heroes.
What role does Saga Norén play in The Bridge?
A detective who challenges traditional gender roles
She presents a rational and professional femininity, distinct from stereotypical portrayals.
What characteristics define Saga Norén’s portrayal in The Bridge?
Androgynous clothing, minimal makeup, unemotional demeanor
These traits differentiate her from traditional feminine portrayals in crime dramas.
Which feminist theorist’s ideas align with Saga Norén’s character?
bell hooks
Her work emphasizes inclusivity and the rejection of patriarchal gender norms.
How does Saga Norén reflect the possibility of dismantling oppressive structures?
By demonstrating competence and authority in a male-dominated profession
This representation subverts traditional gender roles.
What is the significance of Saga’s equal portrayal with male colleagues?
It challenges the notion that women should be nurturers or emotionally-driven characters
This reinforces the idea of women as equals in intellectual capacity and professional acumen.
What does intersectionality refer to in the context of feminist theory?
The interconnectedness of issues of gender, class, and race
This concept is advocated by bell hooks and is exemplified by characters like Saga.
How does The Bridge highlight women’s authority?
Through characters like Saga and Lillian, who challenge patriarchal norms
Their roles depict women breaking through traditional confines of gendered roles.
What scene reinforces Saga’s feminist empowerment?
When she holds a position of power in her investigation with Natalie Anker
This scene underscores her equality in professional settings.
What overarching theme do both Peaky Blinders and The Bridge explore?
Gendered representations that reflect and challenge societal norms
They navigate the complexities of masculinity and femininity within patriarchal structures.
How does Peaky Blinders illustrate women’s roles within patriarchal structures?
By showing how women can be both marginalized and empowered
This reflects the show’s engagement with subversive femininity.
What progressive model of femininity is presented in The Bridge?
Through Saga’s emotional detachment and professional capability
This defies traditional gender expectations.
True or False: The Bridge directly engages with race as much as other shows.
False
Although it highlights women’s authority, race is not a central theme.
Fill in the blank: Peaky Blinders navigates the interplay between traditional masculinity and _______.
[subversive femininity]
