Season 1 Episode 19 – “Miss Mystic Falls” Analyzed by the Sex Role Perspective
Reinforcing / Resisting Female Stereotypes
The girls begin preparing for Miss Mystic Falls and each have different reasons for why they’re entering the pageant:
- Elena’s reasoning for wanting to be involved in the pageant is because it was something her mother did, and she wants to honor her mother by also participating. Elena’s reasoning shows how her family is a huge priority, and this reinforces the female stereotype that women’s main drive is caring for and being thoughtful about their loved ones.
- Caroline showcases all her accomplishments and volunteer work to put herself in front of the other candidates. Caroline’s activities showcases how she takes the initiative and applies for the pageant because of her own drive – resisting the female stereotype by being assertive and knowing what she wants.
The girl Stefan feeds on represents the damsel in distress, a commonly represented stereotype about women needing to be saved by a man. Ultimately, she does end up being saved by Damon’s brother, this circumstance reinforcing that female stereotype.
Reinforcing the Toxic Masculinity Stereotype
Stefan’s urge for blood consumes him and he turns into a different person. His obsession with feeding and blood has led him to become completely opposite of the character he represents and becomes violent, manipulative and deceitful. Stefan represents the epitome of the toxic masculinity stereotype by letting his aggression get the best of him.
Shared by: Alexis Masino
Image Credit: https://www.popsugar.com/entertainment/Vampire-Diaries-Recap-Miss-Mystic-Falls-8207408