FEMTIO NYANSER AV KÖNSIDENTIET - En undersökning av makt och könsidentitet i filmen ”Fifty Shades of Grey”

Abstract

In this thesis we examine gender identity and power asymmetry in negotiation in the film Fifty Shades of Grey. For the purpose of this study we ask these following questions: · Which power asymmetries and gender identities are demonstrated in the meeting between the characters Anastasia and Christian? · How do each of the character react to the power asymmetries, and how can that be understood in relation to gender identities? To examine gender identity and power asymmetry, we apply the theories of Judith Butler and Michel Foucault. We use Butler’s terms “performativity” and “the heterosexual matrix” to examine actions, stagenings, positionings and negotiations in relation to power asymmetries, masculinity/femininity and heterosexuality. To apply the theories and terms on the material we combine qualitative research with a three dimensional model, inspired by the sociologist Simon Lindgren, as our method. The results of our analysis showed that the characters confirmed positionings as masculine/feminine, but also that they opposed to them over time. Both characters were superior and subordinate in relation to the other, which shifted depending on the situation and the reaction of the other. Our conclusion is that gender identity and power asymmetry are negotiable in relation to others, rather than something constant and determined. The key is therefore to study negotiations between interpersonal relations.