As we have learned in our discussion of Mary Wollstonecraft and Virginia Woolf, gender issues have been a huge concern of our society for quite some time and the way we each identify gender reflects many factors: parental views, social views, religious views, etc. However, what seems to be the most influential factor, especially for the youth of America, is media.
Assignment:
For this essay, in 3-4 pages, write an analysis discussing representations of one gender in three different mediums (print, film, television, internet, etc.) and how you believe that representation affects young people’s perception of that specific gender. To develop this argument into a manageable topic for a 3-4 page essay, begin by narrowing your topic. For example, look at how a specific characteristic of the gender is portrayed (women as a homemakers, men as protectors). After giving consideration to the specific area you’ve chosen, consider these questions. How is the gender you’ve chosen to write about depicted in media? How do young people absorb these representations, and how do these portrayals influence their own beliefs about gender roles?
Process:
Do a prewriting exercise to determine which gender role you will examine. To create an original argument, choose a subject that you think no one else in the class will examine.
Develop a thesis that is narrow and arguable.
Find evidence from media to support your argument. A variety of evidence is more compelling than from one particular outlet or type.
You must address three different mediums. I have built into this course a discussion of gender in two: text (the essays of Wollstonecraft and Woolf) and movie (Frozen). You may use these and simply find a third medium, which can include, but is not limited to, television shows, advertising (commercial, electronic, or print), art, music (lyrics and score must be addressed), etc.
You are required to use quotes from one of the readings we discussed in Unit 7 (Wollstonecraft or Woolf). Be sure the quotes are properly introduced and integrated. (You may also integrate something from Frozen, but you are not required to do so).
Paper Requirements:
The Essay: 3-4 pages (900-1200 words). The format should follow MLA style (1 inch margins, typed, double spaced, Times New Roman font, 12 cpi) which can be found in your handbook.
You must provide one specific example for each medium you discuss. In other words, if you are discussing the portrayal of men in commercials, then you need to address one specific commercial as an example for your argument:
e.g. the male intruder in the Broadview Security commercial, which you can see at:
Broadview Security : The Next Generation of Brink’s Home Security : Commercial : “Backyard” (Links to an external site.)
Broadview Security : The Next Generation of Brink’s Home Security : Commercial : “Backyard”
You are required to use quotes from one of the readings we discussed in Unit 7 (Wollstonecraft or Woolf). Be sure the quotes are properly introduced and integrated.
A Works Cited page is required and must be turned in with the first draft.
Audience and Purpose:
You are writing this paper to address the influence media has on the way society, especially America’s youth, perceive specific gender roles and characteristics. Who would find this information most concerning? Those are the people you need to address and persuade in this essay.
