Assignment
In this 2-3 page writing assignment, students will choose and research an image from any visual representation (magazines, television shows, advertisements, articles, films) that they find, then analyze it through an intersectional lens. Not only to critically analyze the image/character on your own, but to ground this critical analysis in feminist theory (specifically the theory of intersectionality) and readings from class. Discuss the background, story/narrative, the historical significance to the image, and the technical production/creation of the figure (i.e. behind the scenes creation of the image). Answer questions like, who created this character/image? And why? What time period was it created in (you may choose older images as well)? What is the significance of this images in the world? What is the significance of this character in how we see multiply-situated communities, identities, and individuals? Why does this narrative matter? What type of thought or concept went into creating this character/image?
Also, by the end of your paper, I expect you to briefly reflect on your own consumption of the figure as a fan, audience member, or viewer. In this paper, it will be important that you critically unpack you own position as the consumer of this visual representation. However, this does not mean you use speculation or opinion about the image (like whether you liked it or not) but about the impact this image has on your ideas of gender, race, class, sexuality, nationality, ability, etc. You will need to use what you have learned in this unit section to further explain how you took in the image. Also, by analyzing what you learned in your research of this visual object, you should be able to argue what you believe the creators of that image (whether it be advertising companies, film/tv writers, etc.) had in mind when creating it through your research findings.
Students will be allowed to cite sources from course readings, but will also be asked to cite at least 3 other sources of peer-reviewed work from fields relevant to the course for a minimum of 6 total sources cited. The research paper will be 2-3 page minimum (12-point font, 1-inch margins, double-spaced).