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Gender Stereotypes and Female Protagonist Characterisation Across Storytelling Mediums: A Comparative Analysis of Visual and Traditional Novels

Constant, Manon

(2024)

Details

Supervisors

Gribomont, Isabelle

Faculty

Faculté de philosophie, arts et lettres

Degree label

Master [120] en langues et lettres modernes, orientation générale, à finalité spécialisée: sciences et métiers du livre

Abstract

This research investigates the portrayal of gender rapport and the reaction of female protagonists to adversity across two storytelling mediums: traditional novels and visual novels in story game applications. This study aims to fill a gap in existing literature by exploring the portrayal and growth of female characters represented in different storytelling mediums. This research provides insight on the varying and evolving ways women are represented in various storytelling mediums. The analyses conducted in this study contribute to the broader conversation about gender roles and female representation in contemporary literature. This study employs a systematic approach to analyse gender rapport and female protagonists’ reactions to adversity in both traditional and visual novels. The research compares A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas and The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood with visual novels The Cursed Heart and Open Heart from the story game application Choices. It examines gender dynamics, stereotypes, and character resilience, providing insights into how these elements are portrayed across different storytelling mediums. In the following analysis, female characters exhibit a range of reactions to adversity, from passive to highly proactive, with notable reliance on supportive relationships. Their psychological impacts vary, with some characters experiencing self-doubt or PTSD, while others show no psychological impacts. One common thread in the stories is the resilience of female characters, who show remarkable strength and determination, regardless of the genre or medium. The study also finds that while some characters follow traditional gender stereotypes, others break away from or even reshape these norms. The way gender dynamics are portrayed is complex, highlighting the varied expressions of female agency and the key role relationships play in character development. Overall, the study suggests that modern storytelling both mirrors and challenges societal norms by presenting female protagonists with rich, multifaceted identities, ultimately pushing the boundaries of traditional gender roles.