Patriarchy

Definition

Patriarchy is a social system in which men hold primary power, dominating in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property. This structure not only influences the dynamics of power and privilege but also perpetuates traditional gender roles, shaping the way men and women are represented in society. In the context of gender representation in television, patriarchy often results in the portrayal of male characters as central figures while female characters may be marginalized or confined to stereotypical roles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Patriarchy can be seen in many forms of media, including television, where male characters are often given more complex narratives than female characters.
2. The representation of women in television has historically been limited by patriarchal norms, often leading to their portrayal as dependent or secondary characters.
3. Feminist theory critiques patriarchy by analyzing how media reinforces gender inequalities through stereotypes and biased representations.
4. Television shows that challenge patriarchal norms can offer diverse representations of gender, showcasing strong female leads and complex narratives.
5. Understanding patriarchy helps to highlight issues such as the gender pay gap and the lack of female representation behind the camera in television production.

Review Questions

• How does patriarchy influence the representation of gender in television narratives?
  • Patriarchy heavily influences television narratives by privileging male characters and perspectives while often relegating female characters to supportive or stereotypical roles. This results in storylines that primarily focus on male experiences, thus perpetuating traditional gender roles. Shows that embrace a more equitable approach tend to disrupt these norms by showcasing multi-dimensional female characters who challenge societal expectations.
• In what ways can feminist theory be utilized to critique patriarchal representations in television?
  • Feminist theory provides tools to critique patriarchal representations by analyzing how media reflects and perpetuates gender inequalities. It encourages viewers to question the significance of character roles, narrative arcs, and the overall power dynamics presented on screen. By evaluating the portrayal of women through a feminist lens, one can identify patterns of marginalization or empowerment and advocate for more nuanced representations.
• Evaluate how changing representations of gender in contemporary television reflect or resist patriarchal structures.
  • Contemporary television is increasingly reflecting changes in societal attitudes toward gender, with many shows resisting traditional patriarchal structures by featuring strong female leads and complex storylines that prioritize women's experiences. These shifts not only challenge stereotypes but also empower viewers by presenting diverse narratives that include women in positions of power and decision-making. However, there are still numerous programs that reinforce patriarchal norms, indicating an ongoing struggle for true representation within the industry.

Related terms

Gender Roles: Socially constructed roles that dictate the behaviors, expectations, and responsibilities deemed appropriate for men and women.

Feminism: A movement aimed at establishing equal rights and opportunities for women, challenging patriarchal structures and advocating for women's representation in all spheres of life.

Stereotypes: Oversimplified and generalized beliefs about a group of people, which can lead to prejudice and discrimination, particularly in how gender is portrayed in media.