There are numerous academic publications on Buffy the Vampire Slayer (check out the AUT library and googlebooks), including two well-respected academic journals. There have also been regular academic conferences based on the Buffy series. So why do we study Buffy?
It is firstly important to note that this show draws from, and integrates, a number of pre-existing genres to create the hybrid that is BtVS – soap operas, gothic romances, horror films, supernatural fantasies etc. (in class slide). The intertextuality throughout Buffy is of huge importance and a clear reason to study BtVS. Whedon’s work draws in the large network of followers of already established texts such as Shelley’s Frankenstein (Anita Rose cited in Wilcox & Lavery, 2002) providing a new space for fans of old themes to gather and enjoy.
The prominent theme that appeals to me personally is the element of ‘girl-power’ presented by Buffy’s character that has the secret unlimited strength to fight off demons and other such evil creations. On a public level, the series appeals to teens and adults alike as it deals with real life issues such as sexual identity, relationships, high school and the almighty struggle that is adolescent -something all teens and adults can relate to (Joss Whedon sited in Wilcox & Lavery, 2002).
According to Angela Ndalianis (Melbourne University), BtVS succeeds as cult television series as it gives the viewer a sense of belonging to the show.
REFERENCES
Wilcox, R. &Lavery, D. (2002). Fighting the forces: what’s at stake in Buffy the vampire slayer. Lanham: Rowman and Littlefield.
I agree, the 'girl-power' notion is so prominent in this show that that is almost the whole idea that draws you to it. In so many episodes of Buffy it is Buffy saving the world, and Buffy saving males. This is something that can definetly draw you to it, like Xena;the warrior princess. The idea of a Girl beign in control in new and interesting and exciting. :)
ReplyDeleteA good intial response, but it'd be great if you developed some of your arguments a little further. Why do you think exploring intertextual links are important - and why is it important to theoretically discuss'girl-power' in Buffy? Difficult questions to answer really?
ReplyDeleteBuffy definitely had an underlying theme of feminism; which looking back, I never gave much thought to at the time. Buffy made the male characters seem 'physically' weaker than herself given her slight build. From Angel to Riley and Spike even poor Xander were overshadowed by Buffys masculine like strength. Novels, movies even comics have always had a strong male hero who saves the world from evil and destruction. Buffy does all that, but better because she doesn't need a super hero outfit nor does she look like a hapless female. My younger cousin liked watching Buffy on occasion, because quite liked the idea of a 'tiny hot chick' being able to fight for herself. I guess for the male followers of BTVS the same thing would apply to them.
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