Gender and TV Op-ed
Required length: 800-1000 words
Format: The op-ed should be a Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) file. It should be double-spaced, should use 12pt/Times New Roman font, and should use either MLA or APA citation style where applicable.
For this assignment, compose a thoughtful, well-organized, 800-1000 word op-ed on the depiction of gender roles/gender representation in a fictional TV show (no “reality TV;” animated series, e.g., Family Guy, are fine) that you have watched or currently watch.
Comment critically on the portrayal of gender in one or two characters in the TV show’ you might center on the representation of male and/or female characters or characters who transcend the gender binary of man/woman.
In addition, you might also look at the ways that gender intersects with race, ethnicity, age, or sexuality/sexual orientation in the portrayal of particular characters —their occupational roles, relationship and family roles.
You can write about a single episode as typical of the TV show or write about the show as a whole.
Some issues you might consider when analyzing your selected show:
roles and occupations within the show (leading, secondary?) and genre (e.g., crime, medical, family sitcom, etc.)
age and physical appearance/attention to appearance
depiction of sexuality/sexual relationships
representation of friendship
parenthood/family-work dynamics
education/school issues
explicit discussion of gender issues
Note: You are writing this reflection to the public — specifically to newspaper readers who are educated and interested in the interdisciplinary field of women’s, gender, and sexuality studies. Make your points clearly and make an effort to keep the audience interested.
