Investigating Representations of Femininity and Women's Cultures

As we have studied the work of Judy Chicago and Faith Ringgold, The Joy Luck Club and Pretty Little Liars, Chanel and fashion, and dolls, we have learned that one project of feminist criticism is to more deeply explore, question and challenge, and take seriously parts of culture dominated by women.

In your paper, choose a text of feminine culture to analyze. This could be a childhood object (an Easy Bake Oven), a subculture (figure skating), or a piece of art that is geared towards women (Fifty Shades of Grey). Your paper will explore the text and work towards a full discussion of these issues:

• How do we know this is geared towards/marketed towards women or girls?

• How would you describe the cultural status of the text (is it mocked, respected, ignored)?

• What are the circumstances of its production? (Who made it, why, how was it received, how has it changed over time, if applicable?)

• What is your personal response to the text? (For instance, if you played with the toy as a child, describe the experience. If you have always liked figure skating, explain why)

• What larger lessons can we take from it about the status of feminine cultures in America today? (What is its legacy?)