by Kris Kirova

MULVEY’S THEORY ON REPRESENTATION

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.

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 ->

P!nk- So What

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJfFZqTlWrQ

Miley Cyrus- Adore You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1tzURKYFNs

Beyonce- Run the World (Girls)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBmMU_iwe6U