A current debate in feminism is whether we are in a post-feminist state: is feminism still needed?
1) How might this video contribute to Butler’s idea that gender roles are a ‘performance’?
Beyonce's video contributes to Butler's idea that gender roles are a 'performance' as the video is showing Beyonce, as a typical housewife, doing typical house chores. Therefore, we see Beyonce herself putting on a 'performance' to present herself as the typical housewife.
Would McRobbie view Beyonce as an empowering role model for women? Why?
In this video Beyonce is seen as both empowering and not at all. For example, at the beginning of the video we hear Beyonce talking about 'putting money in the bank' showing that she is independent and doesn't rely on men. However, at the same time, the song is mainly about her crying over a man who doesn't love her. Reinforcing the fact that she isn't seen as empowering.
What are your OWN views on this debate – does Beyonce empower women or reinforce the traditional ‘male gaze’ (Mulvey)?
I do think Beyonce reinforces the traditional 'male gaze' as she mainly uses her sexuality in this video, as well as moving in a provocative manner. Furthermore, the clothes she wears throughout the video reinforces the idea of the male gaze.
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