The representation of gender in the magical film world of Harry Potter

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Published: Jul 1, 2009
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/icw.18089
Keywords:
cinema Harry Potter movies representation gender feminist theories genre theory
Χριστίνα Αδάμου (Christina Adamou)
Τμήμα Κινηματογράφου, Σχολή Καλών Τεχνών, Αριστοτέλειο Πανεπιστήμιο Θεσσαλονίκης
Abstract
The paper looks into the representations of gender in the magical film world of Harry Potter. Using conceptual and methodological tools derived from the theories of second wave feminism and genre theories, it focuses on the interaction between the systematic production of meaning in the film text and the cultural stereotypes around genders. In this context, it analyses issues regarding the plot of the film, the ways in which action moves forward and whether the main characters confirm or undermine gendered cultural stereotypes. Although the magical world of the film's main characters is conservative with regard to preserving the social classes and a patriarchal ideology and is characterized by a lack of democracy, the three main characters stand up against their teachers' despotism, the Ministry's propaganda, the social class system and gender stereotypes. As these film texts are open to different readings, a systematic and in depth analysis of the films contributes towards the possibility of alternative interpretations and multiple identifications of a child-viewer.
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