Laura MulveyThe Male Gaze Theory

Definition

When the audience is put into the perspective of a heterosexual man.

A scene could focus on the curves of a woman’s body.

Definition

Only Male Gaze Theory if this is highlighted with specific conventions.

These are deliberate camera shots/movements, slow motions and cut-aways.

Female Characters

The theory suggests that female character in the media have two distinctive functions:

1. Act as an erotic object for the characters within the narrative to view.

2. Act as an erotic object for the audience.

Examples

Effects

Mulvey suggests that the Male Gaze leads to Hegemonic ideologies within our society.

This results in a patriarchal society – where men dictate the rules.

Hegemonic: The ruling or dominant view in a political or social context.

Social Issues

The theory suggests that male gaze denies women human identity.

Women are solely seen as objects that are used to create sex-appeal, attracting male audiences.