Exploring the Gender Stereotypes in an American Sitcom The Big Bang Theory: A Feminist perspective.
Keywords:
Gender, Masculinity, Femininity, Stereotypes, Gender representation, Media, Gender performativity, Stereotypical roles, sitcom.Abstract
The American sitcom The Big Bang Theory is widely recognized for its portrayal of scientific communities, nerd culture, and interpersonal relationships. However, embedded within its narrative are various gender stereotypes. It has been a popular sitcom which aired on CBS from September 24, 2007, to May 16, 2019, and has been playing a significant role in shaping people’s perception regarding gender. This study attempts to examine the linguistic choices of the characters and character development with plot progression to analyze both the reinforcement as well as subversion of traditional gender norms. The qualitative discourse analysis grounded in Janet Holmes’ Theory of masculine and feminine style of interaction which is supplemented by Queer Theory, are utilized to analyze linguistic behavior and character development across various episodes. The findings reveal a dual narrative: while it reinforces traditional gender roles, the development in characters also suggests progressive shifts. This sitcom, with its dual narrative, becomes a complex media text – one that both reinforces as well as challenges stereotypical gender ideologies.
