Judith Butler's queer theory argues that gender is a social construct rather than a biological result. Society and culture perpetuate exaggerated notions of masculinity and femininity that cause "gender trouble" by disrupting accepted gender norms. Both gender and sexuality exist on a fluid spectrum rather than rigid categories like male/female or straight/gay. Traditionally, media represented heterosexual relationships as normal but homosexual ones negatively; however, representations are becoming more open and complex.

1. Queer Theory

2. Judith Butler
 Considers gender a social construct not a
biological result of nature.
 Male and female behavior roles are not biological
but are perpetuated and constructed by society,
media and culture.
 There are exaggerated representations of
masculinity and femininity, which causes ‘gender
trouble’.
 (disrupts culturally accepted notions of gender)
 Gender and sexuality need to be considered
more fluid than male/female or straight/gay.

3. Old Representation
Heterosexual relationships are
represented as good, happy or
‘normal’.
Homosexual relationships can
be represented as sin, sick or a
‘gimmick’ or joke.

4. New Representation
 Traditional assumptions are changing –
Jack Sparrow (camp but loved).
 People are more willing to look into
relationships further – homoerotic
subtext, shipping etc.
 More open addressing of
homosexuality – Queer as Folk
(represents gay culture rather than a
gay character as a trendy accessory to a
straight couple)