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Writer's pictureNick Saward

The returned and representation of woman

I think that in the returned the woman in the show, while being all different, follow stereotypes and ideas of woman.


I think one of the biggest aspects of problems woman face is the crimes that happen against these women. Throughout the series we are told about and even see scenes of the character Serge (a male) committing violent acts against women. All these killings are against women and set in a dark alley which has connotations of lack of safety. Them representing woman as weak. Additionally, through a flashback we find out the character Julie is also a victim of one of these attacks. Not only but we also learn that Julie is gay having had a girlfriend.


This could link to bell hooks ideas, she believes that the level of oppression is not only because of the fact you are a woman, but another factor plays a role for example race and sexuality. Therefore, being a gay woman makes her vulnerable therefore not just the fact, she is a woman but also gay adds to how much she will be discriminated as despite breaking away from the patriarchy she is reminded of it through the attack.


Furthermore, in comparison to women men are represented as stronger whereas woman almost live to men's expectations and standards. An example of this is Adele, we find out that Thomas has invaded her privacy by setting up cameras all around the house also in his daughter's room invading her privacy too. Indeed, this portrays a controlling of her by Thomas reinforcing males as a more dominant gender. Additionally, in regard to Simon, I think it is evident that Adele is very co-dependent, and she is only ever truly happy in the safety of Simon and having him. This is strengthened as we are aware from Simons return that Adele has been struggling with mental health due to Simon's death.


Overall, woman and femininity are definitely presented as weaker in society. There seems to be an emphasise on men being the stronger sex. Alongside this I also think that the show reinforces stereotypes of females.

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