Research on Gender Stereotypes in the Historical Drama "Shi Liang"
Abstract
As a significant genre of film and television culture, historical dramas not only serve an entertainment function but also profoundly influence the public's perception of history and the shaping of gender concepts. However, characters in historical dramas are often influenced by gender stereotypes, a phenomenon that has sparked extensive discussion in academia and society. This study begins by exploring the manifestations and social impacts of gender stereotypes in historical dramas, taking the female-themed drama Shi Liang as its research object. This drama focuses on the life of Shi Liang, a renowned modern Chinese female lawyer and pioneer of the women's movement. Using content analysis and literature analysis methods, this research systematically analyzes the attempts and limitations of this female-led historical drama in breaking through gender stereotypes. The study finds that while Shi Liang is groundbreaking in presenting female subjectivity and professional achievements, it is still constrained by certain traditional gender narrative frameworks. Through comparative analysis with similar works domestically and internationally, this study further reveals the universal issues and cultural roots of gender representation in historical dramas.
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