5.3.3

Representation

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'The Man' - Representation

Taylor Swift constructs the character of 'the Man' to critique misogyny. The video highlights gender inequality by contrasting male privilege with women’s lack of recognition and agency.

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Mise-en-scène and media messages

  • Everyday settings such as the subway, office, and park symbolise the everyday sexism faced by women.
  • 'The Man'’s dominance in the frame visually reinforces the power imbalance that the video is critiquing.
  • Women on the yacht all wear identical yellow bikinis, removing individuality and highlighting objectification.
  • A time shift of 58 years in the tennis scene exaggerates the trope of older men pairing with younger women.
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Intertextual casting

  • 'The Man'’s voice is performed by Dwayne Johnson, a Hollywood star known for portraying hypermasculine roles.
  • His involvement reinforces the critique of male stereotypes and adds an intertextual layer for audiences who recognise him.

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1Overview

2Component 1: Section A

3Component 1: Section B

4Component 2: Section A

5Component 2: Section B

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