The following paper will deal with the topic of transgender in the context of the literature seminar "Doing (Trans-)Gender". The primary source will be the Netflix series "Orange Is The New Black", created by Jenij Kohan and published in 2013, which deals with the topic "transgender". The series is about the women's prison of Litchfield, its inmates and their different stories. This paper will focus on how the transition of the transgender character Sophia Burset is represented in Season 1 Episode 3 "Lesbian Request Denied". First, the theoretical background and approaches on the issue of transgender will be explained. This includes definitions of certain terms and explanations related to transition. It follows a narrative analysis, which means the analysis and interpretation of certain scenes of the episode that deal with the issue of transition on the basis of the theoretical approach explained in the previous chapter. A conclusion and final thoughts will be given at the end of the term paper.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Definitions in the Context of Gender Theories
- 2.1. Sex, Gender and Transgender
- 2.1.1. Gender Roles and Stereotypes
- 2.2. Transition
- 3. The Transition of Sophia Burset
- 3.1. Physical Transition
- 3.2. Social Transition
- 4. Conclusion
- 5. Works Cited
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper analyzes the portrayal of transgender identity and transition in the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black," specifically focusing on the character Sophia Burset in Season 1, Episode 3, "Lesbian Request Denied." The objective is to interpret and analyze Sophia's transition through the lens of gender theory, examining both its physical and social aspects. The paper will first establish a theoretical framework defining key terms like sex, gender, and transgender, and then apply this framework to a narrative analysis of relevant scenes from the episode.
- Representation of Transgender Identity in Media
- The complexities of physical and social transition
- Gender roles and stereotypes in relation to transgender individuals
- Analysis of narrative techniques in portraying transgender experiences
- The impact of societal expectations on transgender individuals
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
1. Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage for the analysis by highlighting the growing public interest in transgender issues, particularly fueled by popular media representations. It introduces the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black" as the primary source and specifies the focus on Sophia Burset's transition in a particular episode. The chapter establishes the methodology, outlining the planned theoretical discussion of transgender issues, followed by a narrative analysis of selected scenes, culminating in a concluding section. The chapter also briefly mentions the relevant secondary literature used to inform the analysis, stressing the importance of understanding and avoiding harmful stereotypes.
2. Definitions in the Context of Gender Theories: This chapter lays the groundwork for the analysis by providing crucial definitions and explanations related to (trans)gender. It begins by differentiating between sex and gender, drawing on the perspectives of West and Zimmermann (1987) and Stryker (2008). West and Zimmermann’s perspective emphasizes the social construction of sex categories based on biological criteria, while Stryker's work challenges this view, suggesting that sex and gender can be independent constructs. The chapter also addresses the concept of intersex, noting that some individuals may not align neatly with binary sex categories. Finally, it defines transgender, referencing the Oxford dictionary and Stryker’s broader understanding of the term as an umbrella concept encompassing diverse gender identities. This chapter concludes by clarifying that the analysis will specifically focus on the transition of a transwoman, with the understanding that the character is fictional and serves as an exemplary representation.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Transgender, gender identity, gender transition, social transition, physical transition, gender roles, stereotypes, media representation, narrative analysis, "Orange Is the New Black," Sophia Burset, sex, gender, intersex.
Frequently Asked Questions: Analysis of Transgender Identity in "Orange Is the New Black"
What is the focus of this academic paper?
This paper analyzes the portrayal of transgender identity and transition in the Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black," specifically focusing on the character Sophia Burset in Season 1, Episode 3, "Lesbian Request Denied." It examines Sophia's transition through the lens of gender theory, exploring both its physical and social aspects.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
Key themes include the representation of transgender identity in media, the complexities of physical and social transition, gender roles and stereotypes related to transgender individuals, narrative techniques in portraying transgender experiences, and the impact of societal expectations on transgender individuals.
What theoretical framework is used in the analysis?
The paper utilizes gender theory, drawing on the work of scholars like West and Zimmermann (1987) and Stryker (2008) to define key terms such as sex, gender, and transgender. It differentiates between sex and gender, acknowledging the social construction of sex categories and the independent nature of sex and gender constructs. The concept of intersex is also addressed.
How is the analysis conducted?
The analysis involves a narrative analysis of selected scenes from the specified episode of "Orange Is the New Black," applying the established theoretical framework to interpret Sophia Burset's transition. The paper aims to understand and avoid harmful stereotypes regarding transgender identities.
What are the main chapters and their content?
The paper includes an introduction setting the context and methodology; a chapter defining key terms within gender theory; a chapter analyzing Sophia Burset's physical and social transition; and a concluding chapter. A chapter on works cited is also included.
What are the key terms defined and discussed in the paper?
Key terms include transgender, gender identity, gender transition, social transition, physical transition, gender roles, stereotypes, media representation, narrative analysis, sex, gender, and intersex.
What is the overall objective of the paper?
The objective is to interpret and analyze Sophia Burset's transition using gender theory, examining both its physical and social dimensions and considering its portrayal within the context of media representation.
What is the significance of the chosen episode of "Orange is the New Black"?
Season 1, Episode 3, "Lesbian Request Denied," provides a focal point for analyzing Sophia Burset's transition, allowing for a detailed examination of her experiences within a specific narrative context.
- Citation du texte
- Jana Held (Auteur), 2019, Sophia Burset's Transition in “Orange Is The New Black”. Season 1, Episode 3 "Lesbian Request Denied", Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/983927
