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House-Keeping and the Modern Advertisement, 2008.
A look at how advertising still targets woman in a supposedly gender equal world.
1,798 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how advertisements, sometimes insultingly, portray women as empowered in terms of taking on so much of the general cleaning labor, but the positioning of woman as the house-keeper remains unchanged. To explore this issue, it looks at a range of advertising for cleaning products, arguing that women continue to be portrayed in a limited manner and in fact are likely to be spending more time on cleaning as a result of social expectations for private spaces to be showcases.
From the Paper
"For the most part, given most of these advertisements, it would seem that it is almost entirely up to women to deal with all of the grime in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, and anywhere else it may lurk. Whether it is an advertisement for Swiffer products, Tide laundry detergent, or the curious bathtub scouring substance known as Vim, women are consistently portrayed as the lone crusaders, responsible for such matters of the home, and that reinforces stereotypes that keep women as the lead in such roles. For despite making more progress in closing the gender-gap at work, studies show that women still have more to gain in terms of getting their husbands to pick up the slack at home."
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"Surfacing" by Margaret Atwood, 2008.
This literary study analyzes the dualistic gender roles within the main character of Margaret Atwood's novel "Surfacing."
979 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the gender conflict of the main character in "Surfacing" by Margaret Atwood. The paper explains the ecofeminist position that allows the main character to integrate male gender role attributes into her own life. The paper illustrates the power of natural environments to reconstruct a woman's divided psyche.
From the Paper
"The main issue for Atwood's Surfacing is the conflict between gender roles that are present within the main character. The novel is set within the Northern Quebec, where the main character had grown up in an isolated cabin. She has suffered a divorce, the death of her father by drowning, and an abortion. Atwood creates this past history to help build the character around a return to her childhood, which forces the protagonist to face her fears and family history. The central aspect of Ecofeminism within this novel is defined by the main character's victimization of patriarchal domination."
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An Heirloom, 2008.
A discussion of the emotional and symbolic value of a family heirloom.
1,144 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 0 sources, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper tells the story of a family heirloom, a ring. It describes this ring, explains its history and describes the writer's feeling towards it, both as an aesthetic object and a symbol of heritage. The writer attempts to describe what, in her opinion, the ring meant to her grandmother. This paper provides an example of an item whose emotional and symbolic value exceeds its material value by far.
From the Paper
"My mother chose the object for this assignment, but when I first examined the requirements exactly the same item came to mind. It is an item that has a history within our family. However, it is important just to the women of the family and in particular to me as I am in possession of it now. The item in question is a ring that belonged to my grandmother, and from the material point of view, it is valuable but not extremely so."
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Canada's Gendered Welfare State, 2007.
An examination of the Canadian social welfare policy.
1,406 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper examines a series of articles which all criticize the current push towards a neo-liberal interpretation of social welfare policy - both in Canada and in a number of other western nations. The paper suggests that the articles' central theme remains the same - that women are unjustly victimized by the prevailing social welfare network. The paper examines the argument made that women are falling behind in some regards vis-a-vis social welfare after some moderate advances in previous decades and concludes that the articles' authors are not necessarily wrong in their views, but occasionally over-state their cases - in large measure because their work is informed by ideological commitments as well as by scholarly concerns.
From the Paper
"In her work, Ann Porter seeks to advance a "feminist economy" that illustrates how women are - and have been - oppressed by the capitalist system and by the patriarchal order. Specifically, Porter devotes a great deal of her time to looking at the historically strained relationship between the state and women and draws approvingly from socialist (or Marxist) feminists who critique how the traditional capitalist order supported a traditional "dual" arrangement whereby the man served as breadwinner and the woman served as a dependent subordinate in charge of the household. However, the advent of women entering the paid workforce in great numbers changed this arrangement and therefore blunted the inherently exploitative features of the patriarchal capitalist order as it pertained to women."
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Body Objectification in Woman Athletes, 2008.
An analysis of the relationship between women athletes, body objectification and eating disorders.
2,291 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 29 sources, APA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the body of scholarly and research literature on the subject of female athletes, body image and objectification. It analyzes the role that the feminine ideal plays in the cognitive dissonance many sportswoman experience in reconciling the need for musculature to compete with the societal pressure to confirm to traditional norms of gender appearance. It pays particular attention to the correlation between this dissonance and the onset of eating disorders. The paper concludes with an analysis of qualitative research done by the author. The paper includes several interviews and discusses the light they shed on the previously discussed theories.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Literature Review
Interviews
From the Paper
"The coding of these interviews, albeit abbreviated because of limitations of time and length, nonetheless reveals distinct clustering patterns of words that connote issues central to our research topic. There clearly is a strong correlation between perceived body type, female athleticism and eating disorders in the case histories recounted in our interviews. Self-objectification is also in evidence as one of the root causes of the underlying psychological conflict that finds expression in eating disorders. Maggie's story in particular illustrates how destructive the discontinuity between the 'feminine ideal' and perceived body image can be. Just as the interview with the woman body builder demonstrates how the feminist perspective consciously applied to the problem of stigmatization of "muscular' woman can in fact insulate women from the social approbation of outright bias."
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"Raise the Red Lantern", 2008.
An analysis of the tragic fate of Chinese women under the influence of the feudal ideas, as depicted in the film "Raise the Red Lantern".
1,020 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the 1991 film "Raise the Red Lantern", directed by Zhang Yimou, may be viewed on different levels. It argues that we should view the film as depicting the subjugation and hopeless situation of Chinese women on the one hand; while keeping in mind that this is mirrored by the subjugation of the peasants by the landowners. Both systems of subjugation utilize a system of divide and rule, so that the oppressed aim their anger at each other, not at their oppressors. The paper attempts to show how, in this way, the film is an excellent allegory of the way in which dictatorships succeed, by dividing and ruling the common people.
From the Paper
"This most noticeable feature of this film is that despite the fact that it is shown from the viewpoint of Songlian, the Fourth Mistress, nevertheless it constantly reflects anti-women prejudice, much of it internalized by women themselves. For example, Second Mistress seems at first to be friendly towards Songlian - causing one to question why. However, it is sad to see that when she introduces her little daughter to Songlian, she states: "How useless! I only have a daughter!" This is a brutally destructive remark to make in front of the small girl, and teaches her to expect nothing from her life. It is shameful that this comment should come from someone who is herself a woman, and reflects a deeply sexist society. No wonder that by the time we meet Songlian at the beginning of the film, she is already resigned to being nothing more than a concubine. "
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Global Problems Facing Feminism, 2007.
A discussion about moving towards a transnational feminist movement.
1,353 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the gap between theoretical feminism and practical feminist activities. It looks at how a global movement needs to change male attitudes and how whole social systems need to be understood. The writer suggests that the examination of case studies could help create a number of workable models, separate from mere ideology, oriented towards raising women's basic status, reducing women's suffering, and seeing that women come to be appreciated as equal citizens, across the world.
Outline:
Introduction
Essential Consultation
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper
"Western countries offer much familiarity with the women's movement and topics of feminism as can be said of the educated classes in the non-Western world. However, on a global scale, the gains of feminism have been quite low, as should inspire interest in a global movement towards public education, legal and social reform, so that all citizens are at least aware of the ideal of gender equality. The United Nations and various non-governmental organizations have long discussed the imperatives of women's rights and gender equality. Many Westerners fail to see the degree of sexism to non-Western societies in extreme class gaps, deep poverty and general suffering affecting women, and less activity in making women aware of their rights, as comes to being seen as rather a luxury under such circumstances. Unfortunately, Western feminists can seem to avoid such realities though they are essential to the building of a bona fide transnational feminist campaign."
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Men and Housework, 2008.
This paper provides an analysis of men's participation in housework and childcare.
2,000 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that as more and more women have entered the paid workforce, one might expect that men would take on an increasing share of the housework and childcare. The writer points out that after all, the rationale for women doing almost all of this used to be that the domestic sphere was their sphere, while the paid workforce outside of the home was the male sphere. As this is no longer the case, one could reasonably expect that men would be sharing housework and childcare equally. However, while there has been some change in this respect, the writer maintains that domestic labor is still regarded by many as "women's work," and men do not participate sufficiently. This paper reviews this unfortunate situation, and the reasons for it. It argues that the primary reason for this situation is that it derives from the fundamental structure of patriarchal, capitalist societies, so that the solution can lie in nothing less than a fundamental, radical restructuring of society.
From the Paper
"These are precisely the two major difficulties that face us in solving this riddle. For example, it would certainly seem that work in the domestic sphere and work in the paid labour force outside of the house are negatively correlated, in that the more hours one puts in at one workplace, the less hours one has available to put in at the other. It is a fact that women still work fewer hours per year, and as we noted above, it is a fact that they still do the lion's share of work in the domestic sphere. These two facts are clearly related, although in something of a chicken and egg way - and as Hou and Omwanda explain, we certainly cannot say that one factor causes the other, due to the possibility of multicausality. For example, we might need to look to religious, social or educational factors to account for the differences, as well. And even if we could say that this was the case for one woman, we could scarcely generalize to the entire population of women, particularly in a diverse country."
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Women in Music Videos, 2007.
This paper discusses the portrayal of women in music videos.
1,636 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that in our consumerist society, music is one of the most important money-spinners. The writer points out that as noted by Julie L. Andsager and Kimberly Roe, music videos are very important in this industry as they play an important role in launching the careers of artists. Moreover, the writer describes that music videos enjoy an enormous following among teenagers, which means that they likely play an important role in forming their opinions about important issues such as gender roles. This research paper investigates the key issue of how music videos portray women. The writer maintains that as music videos have the potential to impact the lives of so many women, and to form the opinions of so many young people of all genders, the portrayal of women in music videos is clearly a matter of great importance.
From the Paper
"Clearly there exist destructive music videos which encourage sexism and the objectifying of women. This is cause for great concern as such music videos clearly have the potential to encourage men to treat women as mere sex objects. Even more troubling is the fact that some music videos seem to actively encourage and promote violence against women. For example, Van Horn found that more than half of the music videos he examined contained violence, and that all too often this was violence against women. An Eminem song, Kim, illustrates this chillingly well. The following is not the entire song, but merely excerpts, but it should be kept in mind that the entire song is sickeningly violent, not only these excerpts."
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Women and Fundamentalism in the Abrahamic Religions, 2007.
An analysis of the roles of women, fundamentalism and marriage within the context of Christianity, Islam and Judaism.
1,944 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the roles of women, fundamentalism and marriage within the context of Abrahamic religions. It discusses the importance of these three factors in making up the crucial issues that are part of the modern perceptions of Christianity, Islam and Judaism. It discusses the major impact that religious fundamentalism can have on society and compares the major tenets of sexuality and marriage within Christianity, Judaism and Islam.
From the Paper
"In conclusion, the role of women, fundamentalism, and marriage are challenging issues within the context of Abrahamic religions in modern secular society. In many ways, the limited role of women and marriage for these age-old religious faiths is being reconstructed within the modern world. Although the rising problem of religious fundamentalism is challenging secular government in recent times, they are normatively small groups that do not hold sway over the majority rule. In this manner, the changing role of women, fundamentalism, and marriage are crucially critical issues that need to understood within context of Abrahamic religions in the 21st century."
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Gender as Performance, 2007.
This paper provides an analysis of Judith Butler's perspective on gender as performance while reviewing her article "Subjects of Sex/Gender/Desire".
1,968 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
In this essay, the writer notes that explaining and critiquing Judith Butler's notion of gender as performance requires examining her article, "Subjects of Sex/Gender/Desire" and comparing Butler's views to those of other feminists and sociologists. The writer points out that Butler's notion of gender as performance is primarily based on her interpretations of Foucault and Nietzsche and can best be described as calling upon women to challenge the language of internalization by physically signifying their very essence, style, and necessity. The writer concludes that Butler's approach to formulating a feminist language involves overcoming cultural constructs of gender by redefining gender as performance and rejecting outmoded forms of expressing gender identity and sexuality.
From the Paper
"In practical terms, this means that acts, gestures, and expressions of desires create the illusion of a socially conformist gender identity, which reflects society's determination to regulate sexuality in accordance with traditional standards of acceptable conduct and behavior."
"Through insights such as this, sociologists like Butler have contributed to a broader understanding of gender issues, for they have studied unexamined aspects of gender such as the sexuality of women who have desires considered to be on the margins of society, and have examined manifestations of gender behavior that lie outside the traditional areas of social interaction. Some of their conclusions have stirred controversy, but this is to be expected in a prevailing social and cultural environment which discourages frank discussions about sexuality."
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Hildegard von Bingen, 2007.
This paper analyzes the biography and musical innovations of Hildegard of Bingen.
2,532 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
The paper analyzes the many differing musical innovations of the medieval composer Hildegard von Bingen. The paper discusses her biographical background as a woman in the Roman Catholic Church in relation to the spirituality of her music. The paper also looks at her status as a feminist innovator of her time. The paper shows how her spiritual music deviated from normative western religious music interpretations of medieval vocal chant.
From the Paper
"Hildegard von Bingen was born in 1098 into a family of German nobles from the courts of Sponheim at Bermersheim. In most historical evaluations of her life it was known that she was the 10th daughter and was found to be sickly and weak at birth. However, her family quickly sent her to be educated at the Disibodenberg monastery after her apparent recovery from illness at a young age. At the monastery she was brought under the tutelage of Jutta, a famous nun that played a crucial role in her educational development within the Roman Catholic Church. In many ways, religious education at the nunnery directly resulted in her acquiring the musical lessons and spiritual inspiration to understand the complexities of composing music within the Church tradition. Yet there is a contradictory historical perspective that tells of von Bingen never actually being taught composition, but that it was an act of God that gave her the gift of music."
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Canadian Gender Roles, 2007.
This paper explores gender roles and how they have evolved in Canadian families.
1,888 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
The paper provides a historical analysis of the evolution of gender roles and the economics of the Canadian family over time. The paper shows how this evolution was notably conservative in many respects in perpetuating the sexism and economic gender inequalities of the past.
The paper discusses how women still remain the primary source of domestic labor and male economic predominance continues within most households. The paper stresses that while the social direction points towards greater equity, we must not lose sight of the enduring economic injustices and burdens that women bear in both the domestic sphere and in the paid labor force.
From the Paper
"The statement that in Canadian society men are no longer considered the "sole breadwinners" nor women only fit for "domesticity" is an assertion that, upon initial review, appears incontrovertible. After all, the rise of the dual-income family and the increasing prominence of women in the paid labour force is a widely recognized phenomenon in Canada as in most western countries."
"This being said, however, upon closer review it may be argued that the situation in terms of gender roles in the Canadian economy and labour force is not quite as clear as this statement would suggest. As this essay will argue, while men are no long the sole breadwinners, they do retain significant economic dominance in Canadian households as in the labour force as a whole."
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Gender in "Twelfth Night", 2007.
This paper explores the issue of gender from the perspective of the character of Viola in Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night".
1,657 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses Viola's presentation of gender in "Twelfth Night", which implicitly challenges the strict binary gender system that prescribes different and opposite behaviors for the two genders. The paper shows how the character of Viola stands in stark contradiction to long-standing prejudices about the weaknesses and frailty of women. The paper also points out, however, Viola remains a victim of the prejudices of her society, in that from her own perspective, she continues to see women as frail.
From the Paper
"In Twelfth Night, Viola and Sebastian are twins, but they are separated in a storm at sea. Viola adopts male garb, and the name Cesario, as a survival strategy - to enable herself to get a job working for the Duke Orsino. Thus, Violet is not explicitly making a statement about gender when she begins passing as a male - rather, she is simply making a statement about wanting to survive. However, the necessity for her to adopt this strategy does of course arise from the strict sex-based segregation of the times. Despite the fact that Viola does not intend to buck the binary-gender system in any way, she certainly seems to enjoy "being a man," and moreover, the fact that she adopts a male persona inevitably leads to gender-based complications. For example, the Countess Olivia falls in love with her, while "Cesario" falls in love with Duke Orsino, and "Cesario" is challenged to a duel by the jealous Sir Andrew. Viola's gender switch thus lays the foundation for much of the plot. However, despite being a plot device, it also makes it possible for Viola to present an alternative representation of gender."
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Contemporary Feminism, 2007.
An analysis of "Others in their Own Land: Second Generation South Asian Canadian Women, Racism and the Persistence of Colonial Discourse" by Angela Aujla, "Why I'm a Feminist" by Lauren Anderson, and the film "Iron Jawed Angels" by Katja Von Garnier.
1,507 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
The paper examines two articles and a film: Angela Augla's article, "Others in their Own Land: Second Generation South Asian Canadian Women, Racism and the Persistence of Colonial Discourse", Lauren Anderson's article, "Why I'm a Feminist", and the film "Iron Jawed Angels" directed by Katja Von Garnier. The paper focuses on key concepts in these texts and explains how they are significant for contemporary feminism. The paper discusses Aujla's concept of "othering", Anderson's talk of solidarity, and the film's portrayal of the many enormous challenges to solidarity among women.
From the Paper
"In her article, Aujla focuses on how racist and colonial discourses inherited from the past continue to influence dominant discourses today, and on the way in which South Asian Canadian women are still perceived by the dominant culture. These discourses function to keep South Asian Canadian women marginalized within Canadian society, and ensure that no matter how many generations of their family have lived here, they are still never truly Canadian enough, or white enough, to be part of the dominant culture and dominant discourse. They are thus permanent "others" in their own countries."
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