Cap2

Question 1

What role do representations of gender, class, race, and power dynamics play in television products?

Answer 1

They shape audience perceptions of social realities, reinforcing or challenging dominant ideologies.

These representations are constructed through narrative, character development, and visual codes.

Question 2

How does the representation of women in Peaky Blinders primarily manifest?

Answer 2

Through patriarchal and gendered lenses, with some subversive portrayals.

This includes characters like Grace Burgess and Polly Gray.

Question 3

What initial role does Grace Burgess embody in Peaky Blinders?

Answer 3

She is positioned as a sexual object, described by male characters as ‘too pretty’.

Her entrance to The Garrison Pub visually underscores her distinctiveness.

Question 4

What aspect of Grace Burgess’s character reveals her complexity?

Answer 4

Her determination to secure a job and request to sing for the men.

This highlights her agency despite being sexualized.

Question 5

What duality exists in Grace’s representation in Peaky Blinders?

Answer 5

A tension between traditional femininity and her subversion of these norms.

This foreshadows her role as a more powerful figure.

Question 6

What role does Polly Gray play in Peaky Blinders?

Answer 6

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.

Question 7

How does Polly Gray challenge stereotypes of women in Peaky Blinders?

Answer 7

By portraying her as a strong, independent, and ruthless leader.

This contrasts with the notion of women as merely passive caregivers.

Question 8

What visual techniques reinforce Polly Gray’s authority in Peaky Blinders?

Answer 8

Low-angle shots and physical actions, such as slapping her nephew John.

These techniques assert her dominance within the family.

Question 9

How is masculinity constructed in Peaky Blinders?

Answer 9

Through characters like Tommy Shelby, representing traditional masculinity that is dominant and aggressive.

His style includes sharp suits and a readiness for violence.

Question 10

What does Tommy Shelby’s character reflect in terms of masculinity?

Answer 10

He reflects the archetypal working-class gangster.

His character combines toughness with a violent demeanor.

Question 11

What emotional depth does Tommy’s character in Peaky Blinders reveal?

Answer 11

PTSD from World War I, indicating complexity beyond the tough guy persona

This complexity critiques traditional violent masculinity through his inner turmoil and traumas.

Question 12

How does Peaky Blinders challenge the glorification of violence?

Answer 12

Through the portrayal of Tommy’s emotional conflicts and vulnerabilities

This adds nuance to representations of men as emotionally conflicted anti-heroes.

Question 13

What role does Saga Norén play in The Bridge?

Answer 13

A detective who challenges traditional gender roles

She presents a rational and professional femininity, distinct from stereotypical portrayals.

Question 14

What characteristics define Saga Norén’s portrayal in The Bridge?

Answer 14

Androgynous clothing, minimal makeup, unemotional demeanor

These traits differentiate her from traditional feminine portrayals in crime dramas.

Question 15

Which feminist theorist’s ideas align with Saga Norén’s character?

Answer 15

bell hooks

Her work emphasizes inclusivity and the rejection of patriarchal gender norms.

Question 16

How does Saga Norén reflect the possibility of dismantling oppressive structures?

Answer 16

By demonstrating competence and authority in a male-dominated profession

This representation subverts traditional gender roles.

Question 17

What is the significance of Saga’s equal portrayal with male colleagues?

Answer 17

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.

Question 18

What does intersectionality refer to in the context of feminist theory?

Answer 18

The interconnectedness of issues of gender, class, and race

This concept is advocated by bell hooks and is exemplified by characters like Saga.

Question 19

How does The Bridge highlight women’s authority?

Answer 19

Through characters like Saga and Lillian, who challenge patriarchal norms

Their roles depict women breaking through traditional confines of gendered roles.

Question 20

What scene reinforces Saga’s feminist empowerment?

Answer 20

When she holds a position of power in her investigation with Natalie Anker

This scene underscores her equality in professional settings.

Question 21

What overarching theme do both Peaky Blinders and The Bridge explore?

Answer 21

Gendered representations that reflect and challenge societal norms

They navigate the complexities of masculinity and femininity within patriarchal structures.

Question 22

How does Peaky Blinders illustrate women’s roles within patriarchal structures?

Answer 22

By showing how women can be both marginalized and empowered

This reflects the show’s engagement with subversive femininity.

Question 23

What progressive model of femininity is presented in The Bridge?

Answer 23

Through Saga’s emotional detachment and professional capability

This defies traditional gender expectations.

Question 24

True or False: The Bridge directly engages with race as much as other shows.

Answer 24

False

Although it highlights women’s authority, race is not a central theme.

Question 25

Fill in the blank: Peaky Blinders navigates the interplay between traditional masculinity and _______.

Answer 25

[subversive femininity]