This is a brief analysis of how women are represented in varying superhero universes, particularly female superheroes.
The best way to tackle this specific topic is to talk about how female superheroes are BOTH objectified AND idealized. Yes, I said it, they are both. Let’s begin
Some comic book artists believe that drawing women provocatively and ridiculously full figured is a symbol of empowerment. They are very, very wrong. It is clearly evident that comic books are made in the “male gaze”. The “male gaze” is when something is created and shown for the prospective of men. So, men want to see large breasts and tight clothes on women, and that is what these comic book artists are giving them. These women, even with their super powers, are made to satisfy male fantasies in some. Female superheroes are subjected to the same sex object treatment that many other women in different forms of media are also suffering from. However, there was a time where the Comics Code Authority put restrictions on the style that women were portrayed, but this didn’t last very long.
Even in the film industry, women heroes are getting the short end of the stick. As many others have pointed out, we have numerous Batman and Super Man movies, but where is a Wonder Woman film? These female superheroes seem to be the sidekicks of their male-counterparts, and are still in tight, full body suits that show off their figure. These women not getting their screen time because they are not getting respect in the origin medium, the comic book.
On the other side, many women admit that, despite the objectification, seeing female superheroes is empowering. Having women fighting along side men for the greater good is an incredible image to give women. They’re not just damsels in distress or evil villains, although those exist too, but they are strong, powerful women. Seeing these women is inspiring for so many girls, and that is a great thing.
The comic book and superhero film industry are making huge strides toward greater equality. All-female story line such as Marvel’s A-Force and the all-female X-Men series is a huge step out of the male gaze past. Other announcements, like the reboot of Electra Woman and Dyna Girl featuring Hannah Hart and Grace Helbig (pictured above) and the all woman Ghostbusters cast, are sending the film industry out of the cookie cutter superhero movies of the past. Female superheroes are getting the representation they deserve.
Although female superheroes are definitely objectified, they still make an empowering impact, and with recent changes in media, are receiving the representation they deserve.
I’m so glad you posted this! Yes! Of course sexism is a big thing with superheroes and comics. I’m glad this is being talked about and small changes are being made but there’s still a long way to go. I always liked reading comics and watching movies about strong women growing up and they don’t need to be half naked or voluptuous to be awesome!
As a mom to 3 boys I’m really aware of how females and female superheroes are being portrayed in comic books and movies. It’s disturbing but try to make a point of discussing it with my boys.
Discussion is so important!
I LOVED the She-Hulk reboot by Nick & Dent, it was funny, the story lines were fun, and while she was still in basically a one-piece bathing suit, it wasn’t ultra-sexy. Then another writer/artist pair took over the line and I was dismayed by the new dark, uber-objectified depiction. It totally ruined it for me. When friends asked me if I wanted a movie, I said no. They wouldn’t do her justice.
I love that changes are being made for female superheros! They could be such wonderful empowering heroes in girls’ lives!