A Multimodal Discourse Analysis of Identity Construction in Barbie (2023)

Authors

  • Muhammad Abdul Mateen Baloch M.Phil. English Scholar Qurtuba University DI Khan, KP
  • Sobia Tabbasum Sub Divisional Education Officer Elementary & Secondary Education Department, KP
  • Nabiha Noor M.Phil. English Scholar Qurtuba University DI Khan, KP

Abstract

This article aims to throw light on the construction of female identity through the lens of multimodal discourse analysis (MDA). This is qualitative research and the researcher has described the role of the main character Greta Gerwig as Barbie (2024). Her appearance, gestures, communication skills, the way she carried herself, her role, each and everything has been the center of attraction. Her male counterpart, the hero Rayan Gosling as Ken has been shown in a different way. The pink color throughout the movie has described the feminine characteristics. MDA is the mode of communicating anything not through language but through different symbols like the background, dress code, appearance, feminine gestures and all that. Barbie’s character has been analyzed by applying this theory, focusing particularly on her gender as well as her role in a society.

Keywords: Barbie, feminine gestures, gender, multimodal discourse, pink color

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Published

2026-05-31

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026): Liberal Journal of Language & Literature Review

Section

Articles