Introduction to Representation

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Representation

Representation is a crucial key concept in A level media. Here we explore how the media represents different people, social groups, places and events- and discuss the impact on society and individuals.

the key notes on representation:
  • is a process by which the media persons the "real world" to an audience.
  • media texts are artificial, constructed versions of reality.
  • even factual media- such as news- goes through processes of selection, organisation and editing that shapes its content.

Mediation

media texts are a construction of reality, and pay an important role in the way we view the world.
reality is therefore subject to mediation which is the process that takes place when a media text's meaning is created.
when mediation takes place, an institution, individual or even technology comes between he actual event and the audience.


Stereotypes

Media messages have to be communicated quickly which often mens relying on stereotypes. stereotype work as a kind of shorthand where a word, image or sound will stand for a lot more.
a stereotype is a standardised usually oversimplified mental picture or attitude towards a person, group, place or event. Stereotypes act like codes that give audiences a quick, common understanding of a person or group of people- usually relating to their gender, class, ethnicity or race, sexual orientation, social role or occupation.


Representation: dominant or alternative?

a representation in the media will either reinforce or challenge the stereotype.
if it reinforces the stereotype, it is dominant representation.
if it challenges the stereotype , it is alternative representation. 


Task:

5) main stream films use stereotypes as they want to grab the audiences attention as many people watch the stereotypical way that films are produced and if you changed that they might not be as profitable and the stereotypical ones.

Taken

1) Men, Women, Americans, Kidnappers
2)
  • Men- dominant
  • Women- dominant
  • Americans- dominant
  • Kidnappers-dominant
3) The trailer is filled with stereotypes from all of the groups that are presented.
4) It may offend women as they are usually the ones that are getting kidnapped and they are seen as weak and unprotected. 


The Killing

1) Killer, woman
2)

  • Women- dominant
  • Killer- dominant
3) The trailer is filled with stereotypes form all of the groups that are presented.
4) it may offend women as they are always seen as weak and defenseless instead of strong and powerful.


No Offence

1) Women, Police, Men
2) 
  • Women- alternative
  • Men- alternative
  • Police- dominant
3)The trailer is not filled with stereotypes as the women are in charge and not following along with the men.
4) it may offend men as they are not in charge and they are letting the women be the main character and center of attention.


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