Representation

Media representations are the ways in which the media portrays particular groups, communities, experiences, ideas, or topics from a particular ideological or value perspective. Rather than examining media representations as simply reflecting or mirroring “reality,” we will be examining how media representations serve to “re-present” or to actually create a new reality.

For example, beer ads portray drinking beer as a primary component for having a party. SUV ads create the impression that driving an SUV as an exciting, outdoor adventure. And, perfume/cologne ads imply the using perfume/cologne makes one sexually appealing. These ads all create idealized experiences associated with the uses of these products, experiences that may not jive withalternative perspectives on these experiences:

Similarly, the Disney Corporation, one of the major producers of film and television, represents stories and fairy tales for children primarily in terms of White, Western, middle-class values. And, DisneyWorld/Disneyland creates artificial realities that represent different “worlds” — other “lands” in ways that sanitized and idealize any political, cultural, and ideological differences constituting the unique cultures of those worlds. For example, “Safari” boat trips represent Africa as a primitive jungle experience. Click here for a discussion of the role of Disney in constructing their own representations of different realities.

The history of the romantic comedy genre.

The hybrid genre known as 'romantic comedy' made its debut during the 1950’s with Shakespeare’s plays, such as ‘A Midsummer’s Night Dream’ and ‘Much A Do About Nothing’.

Women have always had a key role in the narrative.

The main protagonists are predominately women.

It has a female target audience which has seen little variation over time.

In addition:

Romantic comedies tend to follow a pre-defined structure and tend to include the following conventions:

Two characters leading totally separate lives.

A 'meet cute' situation where both characters meet for the first time.

Conflict which disrupts the equilbrium.

Meet again and resolve differences.

Happily ever after.