Department - Author 1

Communication Studies Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BA in Communication Studies

Date

6-2014

Primary Advisor

Richard Besel

Abstract/Summary

Within the Harry Potter series, females who are in charge of their sexuality seem egotistical and provoking; thus, seen as manipulative to their male counterparts, and the readers. That being said, the values that Hermione Granger possess that push her above Cho Chang’s become ultra-defined, preaching to the audiences how Rowling believes the ultimate female should behave and think, and how Chang has no possibility of attaining these qualities. In this paper, I will analyze and discuss J.K. Rowling’s role in perpetuating the White Gaze with her depiction of Cho Chang in her series, and how Chang’s interpretation in the films further reinforce our dominant cultural predispositions. By juxtaposing Chang’s intelligence, courageous capacity, athleticism, and romantic relationships in comparison to Hermione Granger, I can shed light on Rowling’s typically ideal woman and the unfortunately subpar ideology that Chang falls into.

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