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 Representation: blog tasks

The article suggests that representation is an important part of media studies as representation can influence and/or alter the way we view the world. 

Katie Middleton is used as an example to show the way that different meanings can be created in the media. The image of her wine tasting could be used to suggest that she ha a drinking problem whereas the secon image could be used to suggest that William and her are enjoying a nice day together. 

The how, who and why of media representation: Producers will consider:

• the expectations and needs of the target audience

• the limitations provided by genre codes

• the type of narrative they wish to create

• their institutional remit.

 Representation is decided through a series of choices and rejections. 

Stuart Hall's theory of preferred and oppositional readings fit with representation As audiences decide if they will accept the representation given to them or if they will  draw on their own cultural and social experiences to create their own interpretations.

The rise of new technology has allowed for people to share their own representations of themselves a an individual. People can now engage in the act of self- representation.

The article provides the states that sports in England is an example of national identity in Britain. Things like the queen and Sunday roasts are also other examples. Social media has allowed some British people to reject this  representation. 

Luther (Season 1, Episode 1 - minute 7.40-10.00 
In this clip from Luther 

This clip from Luther conveys both dominant and alternative representations. An example of a dominant representation is that Luther is presented as an inferior to his white counterpart. However, there is an alternate representation a Luther is considered a a superior to his colleague in the car. Another alternative is that there is a woman in control, this subverts he representation of women as they are usually in  an inferior role. 

Many reprentation theories can be applied to this clip from Luther. In terms of the male gaze, the woman seen in this clip does not fall under the representations of women that are usually used to atisfy the male gaze. In terms on Dyers stereotyping and power, in thi scene, the police offerecer are generalised a being respectable and honourable. The superior officer is identified quickly by the audience due to stereotypes. The woman, who is the superior officer, has the key stereotypes associated with someone in her position. 

Levi-Strauss: representation and ideology

Mulvey: the male gaze

Dyer: stereotyping and power
Medhurst: value judgements
Perkins: some stereotypes can be positive or true