A2 Media Studies

1. MULVEY’S THEORY ON
REPRESENTATION
by Kris Kirova

2. Laura Mulvey’s Theory on ‘The
Male Gaze’.
Mulvey talks about the
representation of women in the
media, she mentions that
society in general is dominated
by the male point of view. The
patriarchal belief of active men
and passive women tends to
exist in music videos to this day.
Usually, men would be seen to
play active roles in music videos
whilst females are sidelined and
are usually the men’s reward.
Mulvey blatantly talks about the
bimbo, physically attracted and
half naked women stereotype in
music videos.

3. Laure then continues on to explain that women are seen in two different lights.
One being sexually active female, and the other the hopeless and powerless
female. The only reason women are portrayed this way in music videos and films,
is simply for the male satisfaction.
Mulvey’s theory mentions that women’s roles in the media were often shown as
frightened and in constant need of support and dependency.
However, as years go by she has mentioned that women are fighting back, and
there are a lot more female leads which challenge the traditional and patriarchal
views of women. Women’s status is still important and the male gaze still plays a
major part, however most women tend to use the male gaze and go completely
badass.
An example of music videos videos which conform and challenge the male gaze
stereotype are featured in the following slide ->

4. P!nk- So What
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJfFZq
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5. Miley Cyrus- Adore You
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1tzU
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6. Beyonce- Run the World (Girls)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBmM
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