Representation

 1) Why is representation an important concept in Media Studies?

Representation is an important concept in media as it allows people to explore their identities freely without needing to conform to any stereotypes depicted in a particular show or movie. Its also helpful in increasing self esteem for people of marginalised groups (especially youth). Interpersonal exposure through media representation can assist in reducing stereotypes of underrepresented groups.

2) How does the example of Kate Middleton show the way different meanings can be created in the media?

There are two different sets of images of the Duchess, in this case the photographer, picture editor and news editor are its gatekeepers. attempts can be made to shape and control the image, depending on the nature of the story, and the news agenda at the time. This allows the image of the Royal Family to be improved depending on how the image was taken.

3) Summarise the section 'The how, who and why of media representation' in 50 words.

The producers consider what the audience expects from them and try and create a media product with a specific function which will impact on the representations they construct and the type of narrative they wish to create. Certain choices are made, some rejected in order to maximise profits.

4) How does Stuart Hall's theory of preferred and oppositional readings fit with representation?

Hall argued that audiences don't just absorb media passively, like the hypodermic needle model theory suggests, but instead draw on their own cultural and social experiences to create their own interpretations.

5) How has new technology changed the way representations are created in the media?

With the increase in technology, certain demographics can now represent themselves on social media platforms such as tiktok and Instagram.

6) What example is provided of how national identity is represented in Britain - and how some audiences use social media to challenge this?

During the 2014 World Cup, The Sun sent a free newspaper to 22 million households in England which represented its own concepts of "English" by symbolic references to heroes, values and behaviours that the paper defined as appropriate expressions of English identity. This representation might've helped some audience members to identify with a certain idea of national identity, however social media forums and comments allowed many people to voice their rejection of the messages. 

Watch the clip from Luther that we studied in class (Season 1, Episode 1 - minute 7.40-10.00 - you'll need your Greenford Google login to access the clip). Now answer these final two questions:

7) Write a paragraph analysing the dominant and alternative representations you can find in the clip from Luther.

dominant- men portrayed as leaders because he is solving a murder case

Alternative- their boss is a women...shows women to be in a higher position than the men.

8) Write a paragraph applying a selection of our representation theories to the clip from Luther. Our summary of each theory may help you here: