Representation Theory

Media Magazine

Why is representation important in Media Studies?

•  Representation provides a commentary of personal and categoric identity within society, which is then perpetuated through the media and can alter perceptions from industries surrounding specific circumstances and groups of people. 

How does the example of Kate Middleton show the way different meanings can be created in the media?

•  The control of representation is seldom in the hands of those being represented- the media can manipulate images and exert control to convey a message that can be the complete juxtaposition of the truth. 

Summarise the section 'The how, who and why of media representation'

•  The media is able to construct ideas about groups of people through the choices they make when presenting these people, through words or images, stereotypes are created and remitted into society until they experience naturalisation and the audience adheres these stereotypes without much stimulation - an act of 'common sense' this happens due to ease within media texts but also allows representations of groups to experience progression as society changes. 

How does Stuart Hall's theory of preferred and oppositional readings fit with representation?

•  The use of stereotypes can be interpreted in a variety of ways - some people can accept and read the stereotypes as hoped for by the producers and others can see harmful implications and the untruths behind the stereotypes, referencing the oppositional take. 

How has new technology changed the way representations are created in the media?

•  New technology- the internet in particular, has allowed people to call out and work against harmful stereotypes and lack of representation within the media. Companies are no longer able to just regurgitate what's known and are almost forced into a progressive state due to the speed and density, in which media is consumed by an audience. This means that representation is getting significantly more inclusive especially within mainstream media in the past decade. 

What examples (if provided) of how national identity is represented in Britain are there - and how do some audiences use social media to challenge this?

•  There's a variety of ways in which national identity is represented through the idea of sovereignty to consumption of cult british newspapers. Some audiences, Zoella, for example use social media as a way to communicate self representation. This gives the person being represented full control however, in relation to Hall's theory, this does not always have positive impacts.

Taken Trailer Analysis

Dyer's theory:

• Dyer's theory can be supported by the antagonists, since they are European - a stereotype prevalent within mainstream media - and can be argued as outdated and unjust due to the disparity in the depictions of the protagonist and the antagonists in the trailer and overall supports the idea that those with the power stereotype those without. 

Medhurst's theory:

•  The antagonists are easily noticeable through their European identity and heavy accents however this is extremely negative for Eastern Europeans who have to subvert that stereotype in everyday situations. This depiction of terrorists, increases xenophobia within western countries and leaves a distorted perspective on immigrants which can, in turn have devastating consequences for societal commentation on immigration and immigrant motives. 

Perkins' theory:

•  Perkins' theory that stereotypes can be positive can be seen through the protagonist. The stereotype that men are strong and take lead in situations can be argued as having detriment towards female stereotypes but overall leaves a positive and optimistic perception on the outcomes of this movie. 

Mulvey's theory:

•  Mulvey's theory of women in film existing for a 'male gaze' is supported by the main characters daughter, her conventionally beautiful appearance and eurocentric characterisation will appeal to an audience as it not only links to the 'sex sells' aspect but also enhances the daughters vulnerability and generates much more empathy. 

Levi-Strauss' theory:

• Levi-Strauss' theory is supported through the depiction of women and white men, as the director was a white man and the simplistic ideologies communicated in the trailer reiterate many taught and communicated in a western society however the director is French, therefore you could argue that he subverts this theory due to the role of the antagonists within this movie.