WJEC/Eduqas GCSE Media Studies: Revision Guide

Extension task The range of opinions of Luther indicate that he is a complex character. Write a few paragraphs to consider how the representation of this middle-aged, black, male police officer is constructed through the different elements of media language in the set episode. Applying theoretical perspectives on gender We can apply feminist approaches to the set products. In comparison with The Sweeney , where women are under- represented, Luther features several females in prominent roles and reflects more contemporary attitudes towards gender. DSU Rose Teller, for example, is a successful senior police officer responsible for driving part of the narrative forward as she allows Luther to return to duty. Write a few paragraphs to compare the representation of the females in the two set products. Consider, for example: • How much screen time do females occupy in each product? • Are the women shown in domestic locations (such as the home) or in workplace settings? • What roles do the females play in the narrative? • Do the female characters uphold traditional gender stereotypes, for example are they emotional or dependent on males? • Can the Male Gaze theory be applied to the female characters? Have a Go 5.9 Representation of women in Luther and The Sweeney As you revise the set episode, make notes about the language used to describe each main character and analyse how this constructs representations. Top Revision Tip 5.15 Whose theory argues that women are often objectified and shown through the Male Gaze? Quickfire Revision 5.21 Have a Go 5.10 Representation of masculinity in Luther Luther reacts to the call from Zoe, telling him about her encounter with Alice. What does the mise- en-scène reveal about Luther’s status as a successful police detective? Which masculine stereotypes are demonstrated in this image? Context: What messages about contemporary masculinity are communicated? Can you apply the idea of the ‘crisis of masculinity’ here? What does the dim, natural lighting connote? What might it suggest about the state of Luther’s mind? What do Luther’s gesture codes (pained facial expression and pushing the desk over) signify? Compare the representation of Luther in this shot with Regan in The Sweeney on page 111. What different ideas about masculinity are shown in each product? 117 5 Component 2: Understanding Media Forms and Products