How do the characters of Sookie Stackhouse and Bella Swan represent postmodern views on feminism? Do you think they are good role models for their fans, many of whom are young women and girls (especially in the case of Bella)? Use this week’s readings from Cranton & Jonell, Mann, and Myers to support your answer.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Vampires and the human condition – Wednesday, October 26th
Two themes that permeate vampire-centric media are sexuality and spirituality. Brace and Arp talk about the parallels between vampirism and homosexuality in the Southern Vampires series/True Blood. As we’ve discussed this semester, other vampire media also feature homoerotic undertones. Yet male vampires, starting with the early works of Stoker and Polidori, are also the ultimate seducers who make women (often willingly) give in to their sexual desires, as Williamson notes in her chapter. Using these two readings as the basis for your argument, why do you think vampires have been used as a vehicle for exploring the themes of sexuality and spirituality? Be sure to offer examples of books, films or TV shows to support your response.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Modern Vampire Literature and the Sympathetic Vampire – Wednesday, October 12th
Williamson argues that the “sympathetic” vampire is a literary creation. Modern writers have taken different approaches to make their vampires sympathetic. In her short story “Dracula Night,” how does Charlaine Harris make the character of Eric, who is often portrayed as more of a “bad boy vampire,” more sympathetic? Also, in what ways does her story challenge some of the more traditional portrayals of the heroine (Sookie) and supporting characters (Pam) that we’ve seen in other vampire-themed movies and TV shows?
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