Gender Qualities and Roles of Villains: Presented in North-American Web Comic Homestuck by Andrew Hussie

Abstract

In this article, using the popular North American comic Homestuck by Andrew Hussie (2009-2016), we look at the roles assigned to various antagonistic characters based on their gender. In the 21st century, the world has become more complicated and has ceased to be divided into black and white, absolute good and absolute evil. Literature and popular culture have become more complex, and with it the image of the antagonist has changed, the antagonist has ceased to be just a villain who does evil just because this is his role in the story. The idea of non-binary gender situations, when the usual traditional stereotypes could not describe reality, appeared. A revision of the traditionally masculine and feminine qualities took place, and feminine softness, diplomacy, and compliance began to be viewed not as a weakness, but as a privilege. At the same time, traditionally masculine qualities such as aggressiveness, self-confidence, and intransigence are no longer viewed exclusively in a positive way. This article discusses what the image of modern villains is and how their villainous role relates to their gender qualities.