Abstract

When Disney released The Mandalorian, it quickly became the top show on its highly popular streaming platform. As with all media wielding this level of exposure, it is important to closely examine its content for depictions of peoples including females. In accordance with Sandra Bem's gender schema theory, the implicit messaging in this series can influence the formation of people's mental shortcuts about what it means to be female. This study employs content analysis to illuminate the portrayal of physical and non-physical attributes of the women present in the two seasons existing at the time of this study. Results reveal significant diversity in areas such as body type, character role, age, and appearance; especially when compared to the show's predecessors. However, while Disney has publicly pronounced ethnic diversity a priority, one could argue that The Mandalorian possesses only a surface appearance of ethnic diversity. This is because many of the actresses are either fully white or mixed with white--the race that has historically dominated our screens. Disney has taken steps in the right direction with The Mandalorian but would benefit from a closer content assessment if they seek to retain their consumer's trust long-term.

Degree

College and Department

Fine Arts and Communications; Communications

Rights

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