Portrayal Of Women Research Articles

Chantal Akerman’s Elusive Interiors: What the filmmaker’s portrayal of women reveals—and withholds

Chantal Akerman’s Elusive Interiors: What the filmmaker’s portrayal of women reveals—and withholds

Contrasting Realities: Italian Advertisements and Non-Sexist Linguistic and Social Norms

This research aims to scrutinise whether sexism is confined solely to the Italian advertising domain or extends into the language employed by the general populace and the broader cultural fabric of society. In Italy, despite numerous efforts made over the past decades to eradicate sexism in advertising campaigns, marketers frequently resort to its various manifestations, deeming it a powerful tool for attracting potential consumers. The prevalent utilisation of the female image in a sexist manner, portraying women as objects of desire, remains commonplace. Surprisingly, even renowned influencers aligned with the radical feminist movement often incorporate such tactics in their social media content. Sexism manifests through two principal avenues: firstly, the erotic portrayal of women’s bodies and/or their sensual behaviours, frequently coupled with language expressions encompassing with dual meanings; secondly, the perpetuation and reinforcement of stereotypical gender roles. While the latter has largely diminished in the contemporary era, the former persists prominently. This case study research employs a qualitative analysis approach. Various data sources, including legal documents, historical records, and contemporary media, are critically analysed. The findings suggest that, despite the societal and linguistic rejection of sexism in contemporary Italy, where gender equality prevails across social, economic, and legal realms, the advertising industry continues to rely on such practices heavily.

Representation of Female Gender in English Books A Case of Pakistani English Textbooks

This study offers a comprehensive picture of the gender gaps that persist in our society by demonstrating how gender differences are still prevalent in our educational materials. The goal of the study is to classify gender stereotypes that emerge in textbook content and to investigate how women are portrayed in English textbooks for classes sixth, seventh, and eighth grade that are produced by Sindh Textbook Board. Specifically, the study used Fairclough's three-dimensional critical discourse analysis paradigm to examine the text and images. Various themes pertaining to female representation surfaced. Females were typically linked to household responsibilities, and stereotypes and progressive portrayals of women have both been studied. The language for women or how women are portrayed in textbooks has an impact on the readers of all ages. It influences their thoughts and attitudes about women. Therefore, it is recommended that curriculum developers may evaluate the content before presenting it in published form for the readers.

Is Motherhood; A Ladder of Success in becoming Altruistic towards Social Construction?

There have been certain situations ages immemorial; where it always been discussed to investigate the portrayal of women's experiences that she undergoes while emphasizing the substances of a motherhood. Thereafter the experience of any kind of violence in the setting of domestic or experiencing the rights of risk and the evidence that approaching towards the examination of relevant portrayals with materialistic understanding of similarities between the situation and the responsibility that a motherhood holds during process of the gamut. Even, more precariously. the mental health issue while controlling over their period of experiencing the discussion that evolves around the policy of mothering. Thereafter, it is best for the interest of the child which embeds upon the legal policies and respond and responses that renders why affecting the nature and evolution? Considering a critical personality to be reported during the policymaking of the mothering cum parenthood involving both the parents, this paper tried did emphasized upon the assessment of the risk associated with any responses that are technically determining the orientation of motherhood as a positive or a supportive action as a ladder of success. The negativity lies when the orientation talks about the potentiality of the Father, which considers to be Parenthood; thereafter, the long-term assessment to understand the framework of how it has been recommended to guide upon development of such “Mental Health” Where both positivity and supportive action on the scientific negation brings decision making process of mothering to effect on the long-term assessment of prognosis. Hence, this paper qualitatively and in explorative manner imbued to understand the development of the framework that a mother and child inclusive of their action within the womb analyses the potentiality of the adoption that the recommended environment to be a “mother” or to have a quality of potency to label as ladder of fulfilment or bodily success.

SPEAKING BODIES, VISIBLE VOICES: NARRATIVE TENSION IN COPPOLA’S APOCALYPSE NOW: REDUX (2001)

Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now: Redux (2001), a 2001 re-release of his 1979 Vietnam War epic, sparked significant discussions among both academic scholars and mainstream media. The extended version, which features almost an hour-long addition of new scenes, challenged the question of the film’s continued relevance within the evolving Hollywood industry. While the original version may have highlighted the horror and dehumanization of the Vietnam War, it was also criticized for depicting women as one-dimensional sexual objects and effectively silencing their voices. However, by utilizing Verstraten’s notion of filmic narrative, Mulvey’s visual pleasure, and Stark’s narrative voicelessness, this research aims to show how narrative tension is displayed in Apocalypse Now: Redux and how it highlights the representation of the female characters’ subjectivity. We argue that the Redux version offers a notable difference from the stereotypical portrayal of women in war film. By incorporating the newly added scenes, Apocalypse Now: Redux provides the female characters with more agency and individuality, allowing them to move beyond the limitation of being mere decorations.

Analyzing the image of mother in women's prose in the modern world of development of innovative technologies

This article explores the depiction of motherhood in modern women's prose, particularly in the context of the development of innovative technologies and their impact on Russian literature. By analyzing the works of prominent female writers such as Lyudmila Petrushevskaya, Lyudmila Ulitskaya, and others, the study investigates how the image of the mother is portrayed in contemporary literature. The research emphasizes the role of new information technologies in shaping these literary narratives and their significance in reflecting societal changes. The article also examines the intersection of traditional maternal themes with modern technological advancements, offering insights into the evolving portrayal of women’s roles in literature.

Gender Stereotypes Portrayed in Five Most Popular Indonesian Folktales: Literature in ELT

Folktales have been a medium through which children can transfer knowledge, language, and cultural values at an early age. The existence of folktales cannot be separated from the values prevalent in society. Numerous moral principles are sound for life. As literary works for learning, folktales should introduce gender roles. However, some local cultures and ideologies can represent the role of gender in some areas. Therefore, this study investigates the gender stereotypes in the five most popular Indonesian folktales: Roro Jonggrang, Timun Mas, The Legend of Malin Kundang, The Origin of Lake Toba, and Bawang Merah Bawang Putih. These stories were chosen because they are the most searchable folktales online and are the most used as learning materials in Indonesian school textbooks: English for Nusantara and When English Rings a Bell. Critical discourse analysis (CDA) analyzes the relationship between discourse language and other semiotic cues. The results revealed two aspects of each character's social and domestic roles. The male characters dominate the stories, where male characters are depicted as people who work, travel, and fight. In contrast, female characters are depicted as housewives who do all the housework. This showed a patriarchal culture is involved in the stories, which impacts the portrayal of men and women in society. Therefore, gender construction in these five most popular folktales is needed as they are used as learning materials to teach values to young learners.

Portrayal of Women in Moroccan Television Advertisements: A Cultural and Gender Analysis of ‘La Sigogne’ and ‘Tide’

Portrayal of Women in Moroccan Television Advertisements: A Cultural and Gender Analysis of ‘La Sigogne’ and ‘Tide’

Unveiling Tolstoy Through a Critical Race Theory Feminist Lens: A Social Constructivist Approach

This study re-examines the life and works of Leo Tolstoy, one of the most influential Russian writers, through the integrated lenses of Critical Race Theory (CRT) and feminist theory, employing a social constructivist approach. By analysing Tolstoy's significant works, including "War and Peace" and "Anna Karenina," this research explores how his narratives address the intersectionality of race, gender, and class. By critically examining characters such as Natasha Rostov, Anna Karenina, and various marginalised figures, the study uncovers Tolstoy's critique of his time's social constructs and power dynamics. This Analysis highlights Tolstoy's progressive empathy for the oppressed and the complexity of his portrayal of women and ethnic minorities. Furthermore, it discusses the contemporary relevance of his work in understanding and addressing ongoing social injustices. By situating Tolstoy's literary contributions within the frameworks of CRT and feminist theory, this research offers new insights into the enduring significance of his critique of systemic inequalities, emphasising the importance of intersectional perspectives in literary studies.

Roles of gender in addressing structural inequality: assessment of Borana women’s endogenous institutional agents of gender amelioration in peace, conflict, and post-conflict settings

ABSTRACT The portrayal of women in traditional societies as victims of conflicts and gender inequalities often overlooks their roles as agents of change. This article examined the roles of Borana women in addressing structural inequality during peace, conflict, and post-conflict settings using endogenous institutions. The study utilized an ethnographic research design and a qualitative research approach. Both primary and secondary data were collected for the study. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect primary data, while secondary data were obtained from relevant materials through desk review. The primary data were transcribed, translated, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study reveal that Borana women play crucial roles in fighting structural inequality through endogenous institutions in preserving peace, protecting the vulnerables, challenging male dominance, maintaining community life and upholding women’s customary laws. The study also revealed the challenges women face in addressing structural inequality. These findings contribute to feminist theories by emphasizing women’s active and diverse roles in combating structural inequality. Consequently, assertive policy options that safeguard women’s customary rights and endogenous peacemaking practices are needed. Furthermore, the study calls for policy interventions and support systems that empower women and enhance their participation in decision-making processes.

Women in Mass Media in Under the Silver Lake (2018): A Saussure’s Semiotics Study

This study examines the portrayal of women in the mass media in a movie Under the Silver Lake (2018). This study used a qualitative method and Saussure’s semiotic theory to analyze women in the mass media in the movie, particularly on the connection between the portrayal of women and its meaning based on social conception. There are two types of mass media in the movie that are analyzed: print ads and magazines. The first focuses on the 1969 Tipalet print ads, and the second is from the 1970 Playboy magazine. The findings indicate that women in mass media are not merely portrayed as models or figures to promote a product. Instead mass media is inclined to use their portrayal as a medium to promote the ideas of women objectification. The portrayal of women in those mass media; thus, they often appear objectified, exploited, and undervalued. They are depicted in their most sexual appearance, which does not account for them as equal human beings. Such portrayals of women in conventional mass media provide the most harmful and unequal representation of women.

SHATTERING THE GLASS CEILING Women’s Roles and Images in Iranian Architectural Magazines (1946-2001)

This paper examines the evolution of Iranian architectural magazines, focusing on discernible shifts in the involvement and portrayal of women during three distinct periods spanning from 1946 to 2001. From 1946 to 1969, female contributions to the magazines were markedly scarce initially, with depictions limited to non-progressive representations of women in traditional roles and endorsements directed towards the Queen. Along with the modern cultural initiatives of the Pahlavi state in the 1970s, the magazines transitioned from a prior disregard for female figures to occasionally recognising them as equally capable professionals. In contrast to this shift and the gradual growth in the number of educated and professional women before and after the 1979 revolution, the Islamic Republic embarked on a systematic effort to marginalise women and censor their images from public view. Challenging the post-revolutionary moments of limitation and censorship, few charismatic figures succeeded in redefining their roles and images in architectural magazines, especially after the revivals of 1991 and 1998 that were marked by the publication of two ground-breaking magazines. This study, supported by a comprehensive historical review, employs Theo van Leeuwen’s discourse analysis, revealing the intricate interplay of four discursive strategies in shaping women’s representation in Iranian architectural magazines across the three periods. The text underscores the impact of pre- and post-revolutionary societal and political changes. It highlights how the resilience of Iranian women led to an unprecedented redefinition of female professional roles in the 1990s.

EXPLORING THE INTERWOVEN THEMES OF GENDER DYNAMICS AND SOCIETAL CHALLENGES IN KHALED HOSSEINI'S A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Background and Purpose: This study delves into the portrayal of gender equality and women's empowerment in Khaled Hosseini's novel, A Thousand Splendid Suns, within the context of Afghan society. Recognizing the significance of literature as a mirror reflecting societal realities, this research aims to explore the multifaceted experiences of female protagonists navigating oppressive patriarchal structures and uncover the complexities of gender inequality and women's agency depicted in the novel. Methodology: Employing thematic analysis, I conducted an in-depth examination of character dynamics, societal norms, and narrative elements present in A Thousand Splendid Suns. Through a systematic exploration of themes and patterns within the text, the study elucidates the nuanced complexities of gender discrimination and women's resilience in the face of adversity. Data collection involves close reading and interpretation of the novel, supplemented by theoretical engagement with relevant literature on gender studies and Afghan society. The qualitative approach allows for a rich exploration of the experiences and perspectives of female characters within the narrative context. Findings: The findings of the analysis illuminate the pervasive discrimination, violence, and systemic oppression faced by Afghan women as depicted in the novel. Characters like Mariam and Laila exemplify the intersectionality of gender with other axes of oppression, such as class and ethnicity, highlighting the interconnected nature of social hierarchies. Despite the challenges they face, female characters demonstrate resilience and determination in challenging societal norms and asserting their autonomy. The narrative underscores the transformative power of education as a catalyst for women's empowerment, inspiring others to advocate for systemic change and justice. Contributions: This study contributes to a deeper understanding of gender dynamics and societal challenges prevalent in Afghan culture by scrutinizing the complexities of gender portrayal in literature. By shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of female characters, the research underscores the importance of promoting gender equality and women's empowerment as fundamental principles of social justice and human rights. Ultimately, A Thousand Splendid Suns serves as a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit and the transformative potential of solidarity in the face of oppression and adversity. Keywords: Oppressive male dominance, Khaled Hosseini, gender equality, women’s empowerment, A Thousand Splendid Sun. Cite as: Alqaryouti, M. H. (2024). Gender equality and women’s empowerment in A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 9(2), 490-513. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol9iss2pp490-513

The Portrayal of Women in Adult Learning 1989–2022: A Literature Review

Women’s workforce and higher education participation have increased in the past 30 years. This article reviews the literature on women in Adult Learning from 1989 through 2022. Key findings include that women were portrayed as marginalized, deficient, learners, educators, juggling social roles, and resilient. Various positionalities marginalized women, including gender, race, class, ethnicity, immigrant status, and religion. The intersection of positionalities affected women’s lives. Findings have implications for researchers and practitioners.

The Representation of Japanese Working Women and the Labor Standard Law of Japan – a Feminist Postcolonial Approach

Since the 1947 Constitution was drafted at the behest of the Allied General Headquarters led by the Supreme Commander of the Allied Powers (SCAP), it is only fitting to scrutinize the media directly under it. One of the policies that should have affected Japanese women’s status is the Labor Standard Law. With this Law as a reference point, this paper anchors the SCAP’s ideals for Japanese women in terms of labor whilst I look at the portrayal of Japanese women in the 1948 issues of Pacific Stars and Stripes, an unofficial military daily newspaper under the supervision of SCAP. Through the lens of feminist postcolonialism with power and propaganda as a framework, I posit that the images of working women published by Pacific Stars and Stripes reinforce the internal contradictions presented by Labor Standard Law, which are accompanied by vivid examples of colonial power plays and the exoticization of Japanese women.

Domestic abuse and portrayal of Japanese Women's mistreatment in Junji Ito's 'Whispering Woman'

There are many authors, writers, or illustrators who slip a hidden message based on their cultural background in their works. Junji Ito is one of them, and many of his works are Japanese-based, because of his background, Whispering Woman is one of them. However, Junji Ito is adding more depth to his story, since he is a horror mangaka, Junji Ito puts Japan’s dark side to his stories. In this case, he unveils much more about women's hardships and struggles. Interestingly, Japanese women often get a lot of mistreatment and domestic abuse because of patriarchal normalization in Japan. He created Whispering Woman for people to understand the deeper meaning and point of view, mixing them with horror particles. The primary purpose of this research is to open the eyes of the readers, diving into the depth of the story, and deciphering cultural portrayals of Japanese women's struggle and hardship. The character in this story, Mitsu Uchida, is a representation of what women have been going through, trapping the desire for freedom in themselves, expressing them in another manner, even relatable tiny gestures can be found in Junji Ito’s illustration of each panel.

Reading Gender Stereotypes in Printed Advertisements

Semiotics describes how advertising messages manipulate the connection between ‘meaning’ and ‘reality’ by investigating how already determined meanings are attributed to given products, thus establishing methods of decoding their true meaning. Therefore, the central theme of the semiotic approach to advertising is establishing a connection between meaning and reality. To that extent, semiotics as the science of signs is not an abstract study but rather reflects the essence of social life emphasizing the multi-layered and dynamic character of meaning creation. Advertising messages, therefore, have as much meaning as they have ‘readers’. This research aimed to establish a connection between gender stereotypes and advertising messages, i.e. to point out the main gender stereotypes shown in advertising messages, and to determine whether, in the new century, there have been changes in the way and contexts of the portrayal of women and men in advertisements compared to of the same in the past. A total of 31 advertising messages displayed in a women’s magazine were examined. A detailed analysis of the visual representation of female and male bodies, symbols, body positioning, and products was conducted. Messages are direct and open. Human bodies are glorified by emphasizing a healthy, well-shaped, well-groomed female and male body as a symbol of the extension of the species. It has also been noted that advertising messages reflect changes in society and social expectations among members of both sexes.

Trends in the Transformation of Gender Stereotypes: Representation of Women’s Image in the Modern Media Space of Kazakhstan

The purpose of the study is to assess the transformation of women’s image in the modern media space of Kazakhstan. Using a mixed research approach, including a literature review, analysis of advertising materials, and expert surveys, the authors determine the role of the media in shaping the image of women. The results demonstrate that despite the growing trend towards diversity in women’s roles, traditional stereotypes persist, especially in the context of traditional gender roles. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing gender inequalities in different sectors, including politics, business, and public participation. The gradual transformation of women’s roles reflects social shifts influenced by globalization, feminism, and technological advances. The study underscores the need for further efforts to combat gender stereotypes and promote diverse portrayals of women in mass media. Despite the progress achieved, continued research, political measures, and initiatives to promote media literacy are needed to create a media landscape that would foster gender equality and expand the rights and opportunities of women in all spheres of social life.

Societal impact of Brand Public Relations on gender equality: evidence for a mediation-type mechanism

PurposeThe purpose of the project was to identify a mechanism of causal relationship between Brand Public Relations (BPR) and societal change in the perception of women gender roles.Design/methodology/approachExperimental evidence was obtained in three countries (N = 378) to examine the mechanism of societal impact of BPR. Effects of spillover of evaluations between two sub-brands of a house of brands company, caused by positive publicity about communication co-created by Public Relations (PR), were analysed.FindingsFindings supported the existence of a positive spillover of evaluations. A mechanism of the societal impact of PR was also captured: an indirect effect of news stories about a non-objectifying portrayal of women in the male reference brand on the typicality of a non-stereotypical women role in society was demonstrated.Research limitations/implicationsExperiments were conducted over a period of three years, during which publics perception of brands' communication about gender portrayal might have changed.Practical implicationsThe paper argues for greater recognition of brand public relations professionals as co-creators of promotional brand communication. It gives evidence that one of the unique competencies of BPR is insight into publics and predicting long-term consequences of brand communication.Social implicationsThe findings of the research project suggest a mediated nature of influence of BPR on the perception of typicality of gender (women) roles in society. PR communicators should learn what areas of practice of PR require specific skills for the function of PR to develop the new competence.Originality/valueThis paper is the first one that aimed at establishing a common terminological framework of the societal impact of public relations.

Colonial Narrative and Woman-Nature Dynamics in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness: An Ecofeminist Critique

The paper analyzes the novella Heart of Darkness­ written by Joseph Conrad, exploring the dynamics of woman-nature intersections. The portrayal of women is characterized by a lack of agency to speak, which is aligned with the inert objectification of nature. The implication behind such (mis)representation of women and the environment by colonial narrative is to show the masculine imperial discourse as the powerful one. Together, two colonizing ideologies operate in order to domesticate both women and nature. This paper claims that ecofeminist reading of the novel challenges such domestication, exposing the nuances through the frame narrative technique and covert resistance exhibited by nature and women. The shared resemblance between woman-nature dynamics further stresses the interrelation of freedom for both. The study implies that freedom of women and the environment is interlinked. The study is qualitative and employs the textual analysis as a research tool to draw a conclusion. This paper uncovers the parallels between the treatment of gender and nature by oppressive Western colonial model, which exercises masculine dominance to locate the dynamics of women-nature intersections.