tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9204080274406469.post3443308241520180332..comments2023-05-27T01:23:41.984-07:00Comments on Barbaric Poetries: Halloween and New Identitieschristopher lirettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07995726854485863726noreply@blogger.comBlogger5125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9204080274406469.post-11959440108683349162012-04-23T14:09:25.923-07:002012-04-23T14:09:25.923-07:00To what extent is this show actually changing gend...To what extent is this show actually changing gender roles? While Buffy may have power in the relationship between her and Xander, she is still extremely feminine. Cheerleading, blonde, stylish and emotional, Buffy fits the stereotype of femininity. She may be able to kick some ass, but to what extent does that destroy gender norms? The audience sees Buffy as a typical female character- regardless of how strong she may be, little girls dressing up on Halloween to be Buffy are still conforming to the stereotypical image of women. In terms of Xander's gender differences, he feels emasculated constantly, comparing himself to Buffy and wishing he could contribute in the manner that she does to the world. His struggle with power only proves that manliness exists as power, and that men typically assume the role of power. While he may be sensitive, and may embody how men should be, the role of power and masculinity are still present in the plot, and suggest that power should belong to men.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9204080274406469.post-82758864904464125362012-04-23T08:13:49.514-07:002012-04-23T08:13:49.514-07:00I completely agree with Madelynn on her point. Mos...I completely agree with Madelynn on her point. Most guys are more like Xander then James Bond or some other classic masculine character. No offense to any of the guys that you're not James Bond, but Prince Charming characters place unrealistic standards on guys just like the gender roles placed on females. The guys I am friends with are not perfect, have their awkward moments, and my not always be rocking a classy suit. I think Xander appeals to that. He is still one of my favorite characters, and shows strong and reliable qualities that normal guys can have. He can make the audience appreciate a guy for his more subtle actions than always being the action hero.MaggieHhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12530036033095640988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9204080274406469.post-10426264272108716542012-04-22T09:48:55.545-07:002012-04-22T09:48:55.545-07:00I think Xander is a representation of real guys ou...I think Xander is a representation of real guys out there who do struggle with masculinity, and is defying the stereotypes of the ultra masculine guy who always saves the damsel (or damsels) in distress. I agree with Alexandra that he does demonstrate the desire to be more of a man, which is normal I think. I think Joss Whedon switched the gender roles specifically between Buffy and Xander, having Buffy be the one who constantly saves Xander.madelynnhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07756638382167137518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9204080274406469.post-82793633254400058792012-04-20T15:00:32.893-07:002012-04-20T15:00:32.893-07:00I think Xander's lack of growth as a character...I think Xander's lack of growth as a character is directly related to his struggle with his masculinity, which is the reason for his many failed love interests. Xander becomes a comic relief for the audience due to the fact that he is often found stating the obvious. Although it is usually the obvious to us, Buffy and the gang do not always have a clear perspective on the current events, therefore, his unwitting insight is of value to them. In my opinion, this episode showcases some of Xander's insecurities. We see Xander responding poorly to Larry's threats by pushing him into the soda machine. I think by choosing to dress up as an army man Xander demonstrates his desire to be more of a man.Alexandrahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02228974081247324213noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9204080274406469.post-28332695164610942862012-04-18T19:24:47.912-07:002012-04-18T19:24:47.912-07:00I think Xander is an interesting character in the ...I think Xander is an interesting character in the Scoobies. Mostly, he is the source of comic relief during times of tension and seriousness. He also forms complex relationship with Buffy, Willow, and Cordelia. Yet, after watching the end season 3, I do not think that his character has shown as much growth as the other characters. We see Willow evolve into a morally strong female character as a loyal friend to Buffy, helping her every step of the way. She also comes to love Oz, and forms a genuine mature relationship. This contrasts with Xander, in that he often does like someone but she often turns out to be some form of creature such as a former demon or a mummy. Additionally, Xander often displays his masculinity (taking on the male stereotype) and even competes with Angel sometimes. This may show his insecurities of his masculinity.courtneylinhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16287994128956478576noreply@blogger.com