The Representation of Feminism in Grey’s Anatomy through Gender Stereotypes
Abstract
Grey’s Anatomy is a highly popular television show that addresses the current political climate, and how it affects men and women in the workplace through the use of a complex narrative and a diverse cast. Adults learn about and negotiate their own identity and the identifies of those different from themselves through the use of popular culture. Grey’s Anatomy is an example of popular culture, and was therefore chosen for this study. The relationship between Meredith Grey and Derek Sheperd was focused on specifically due to its longevity and complexity throughout the series. Themes of post-feminism and feminism were analyzed in the television show’s episodes that centered around this relationship through the use of gender stereotypes. It was discovered that Grey’s Anatomy more often reflects themes of post-feminism up until Derek’s death. After the death of Derek, Meredith became Grey’s Anatomy’s lead character, and there is a clear shift to more dominant themes of third-wave feminism as the audience starts to see Meredith negotiate feminism within the current political and social climate.