The Barbie Phenomenon, Volume 1
Gender, Identity, Race and Sexuality
- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
The Barbie Phenomenon, Volume 1
Gender, Identity, Race and Sexuality
About this book
This book offers a comprehensive analysis of Barbie's role in shaping societal perceptions of identity, gender, race, and sexuality. It traces Barbie's journey from a post-war American doll reflecting stereotypical ideals to a significant cultural icon whose image both reflects and influences complex contemporary discussions on identity. By situating Barbie in her historical and social context, this book explores how this iconic doll has navigated and, at times challenged, is shifting societal norms. Structured thematically, this book dedicates each chapter to specific aspects of Barbie's influence, from her portrayal of femininity and body image to her evolving representations of race and sexuality.
By examining Barbie's diverse career roles and responses to beauty standards, this book encourages readers to consider both the empowerment and the limitations embedded in her narrative. It also critically addresses efforts to diversify Barbie's image, questioning whether these initiatives genuinely engage with diverse communities or commodify inclusivity for commercial appeal. Aimed at scholars and students in fields such as gender studies, sociology, and cultural studies, this book draws from multidisciplinary insights to enhance the reader's understanding of Barbie's impact.
Its rigorous theoretical framework and balanced perspective make it an essential resource for those interested in consumer culture, identity formation, and media representations. By engaging with Barbie's complex legacy, this book provides a timely and thought-provoking contribution to discussions about the intersections of identity, representation, and popular culture.
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Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Half Title
- Series
- Title
- Copyright
- Dedication
- Contents
- List of Contributorsā Bios
- Preface
- Acknowledgements
- Introduction: The Barbie Effect: Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Consumerism in Popular Culture
- 1 Barbie ā What Was She Made For? ā The Changing Face of Barbie in Popular Culture
- 2 āYou Can Be Anythingā: Barbieās Femme Queering of Gender, Sexuality, Family, Class, and Place
- 3 āIām Not in Love with Kenā: Barbie as an Aro/Ace Representative
- 4 Post-Racist Barbie: White Feminism and the Limits of Diversity
- 5 āI Donāt Control the Railways or Flow of Commerceā: Barbie and Feminist Perspectives on Fascism in the 21st Century
- 6 āThe Man behind the Tanā: Kenās Trumpian Absurdity
- 7 Horror Barbie: The Unsanctioned āBarbieā
- 8 The Plastic Enigma of Barbies: Idealised, Criticised, and Humanised
- 9 āIām Here to See My Gynaecologistā: Imagining Barbie as Menstruator
- 10 When I Wake Up in My Own Pink World: Liminal Spaces in the Worlds of Barbie
- 11 Mormon Barbie: A Critical Examination of the Male Gaze, Ideology, and Parallel Representations
- 12 āIf She Can See It, She Can Be Itā ā Barbie Is a Pilot, so Where Are All the Women Pilots?
- Index