Key Concepts and Questions of Feminist Criticism
Feminist criticism examines and analyzes literary works from a gender perspective and gender equality. It is “the ways in which literature (and other cultural productions) reinforce or undermine the economic, political, social, and psychological oppression of women” (Tyson 83). It focuses on gender identity, women’s social status, their place in society, and how these things are portrayed in literature. To better analyze the work, feminist criticism always considers the characteristics of the historical era in which the author lived. The lens of feminist criticism provides an opportunity to learn more about gender roles in different periods because it focuses on the relationship between men and women.
Application of Literary Theory to American Beauty
Description
In American Beauty, the representation of female beauty and images of women are central themes, so they can be analyzed from a feminist perspective. In the context of the presentation of female beauty, the film shows how the norms and standards of beauty, defined from society’s point of view, can pressure women and shape their self-esteem. The main character develops her personality by refusing to accept beauty standards, which allows her to realize her true self. The following dialogue demonstrates this:
Carolyn Burnham: Are you trying to look unattractive?
Jane Burnham: Yes.
(American Beauty 00:55:02)
The film touches on themes of gender roles and sexuality, primarily through the characters of Lester Burnham and his wife, Carolyn.
Analyzing the Media Work Through Feminist Criticism
The choice of the lens of feminist criticism motivates viewers to pay attention to the relationship between men and women and how society dictates its values to the heroines. If not considering the theory of feminism, then the audience generally thinks the central theme is how Lester Burnham searched for his destiny and rethought his life path. However, using a theoretical lens shifts the focus precisely to the female heroines, and gender identity becomes the main problem.
Summary
In conclusion, American Beauty emphasizes many significant aspects of the representation of women’s beauty and portrayal of women from the perspective of feminist theory. Lester Burnham, the main character, is highlighted because she is conscious of the need for self-expression and freedom from social and gender stereotypes. The theme of external beauty and its impact on women’s sense of self is explored in the movie. It demonstrates how society can pressure women by establishing specific standards of beauty.
Works Cited
Tyson, Lois. Critical Theory Today: A User-Friendly Guide. Routledge, 2006.
American Beauty. Directed by Sam Mendes, DreamWorks Pictures, 1999.