Katniss Everdeen - A Feminist Icon of Strength, Support, and Sisterhood.
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Course
Film and Media History
Institution
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)
This research proposal focuses on the dystopian universe of "The Hunger Games," and the intricate relationships between
Katniss Everdeen and her female counterparts that weave a compelling narrative within the
expansive framework of feminist film theory. The case will be defined, the social and...
Research Proposal: Katniss Everdeen -
A Feminist Icon of Strength, Support,
and Sisterhood.
, Introduction
In the dystopian universe of "The Hunger Games," the intricate relationships between
Katniss Everdeen and her female counterparts weave a compelling narrative within the
expansive framework of feminist film theory.1 Originating in the early 1970s, feminist film
theory endeavors to decipher cinema's role in constructing myths surrounding women and
femininity. 2 The research question that is going to be explored is: How do Katniss's
interactions with other female characters in the first "Hunger Games" movie contribute to a
feminist analysis within the cinematic narrative?
Upon its release in 2008, The Hunger Games introduced readers to a formidable female
protagonist, Katniss Everdeen. 3 Armed with a bow and an assertive spirit, Katniss defies
traditional feminine norms, emphasizing her independence while shielding vulnerabilities.4
Beyond her formidable exterior, her survival in the arena is not solely attributed to physical
prowess but is deeply rooted in her ability to form meaningful connections with other
females.5 This research explores how these relationships serve as a lens through which
feminist principles of agency, solidarity, and resistance to traditional gender norms are
examined.6 Katniss's connections with other female characters are not mere side stories;
they are pivotal in shaping the feminist themes in the movie. Her proficiency in forming
meaningful relationships with other females positions Katniss as an exemplary embodiment
of third-wave feminism. This investigation goes beyond the surface to understand how these
dynamics contribute to the broader spectrum of feminist ideas in the realm of cinema.7
Case Definition
This study plunges into the intricate portrayal of gender roles through Katniss Everdeen's
interactions in the first "Hunger Games" movie.8 Its primary objective is to unravel the
complexities of how she navigates both traditionally perceived "feminine" and "masculine"
traits and understand how these interactions contribute to challenging or reinforcing
prevailing gender norms within the cinematic narrative.9
To achieve this, the analysis will meticulously zoom in on pivotal moments in the story,
particularly those involving Katniss's relationships with other female characters. The scrutiny
begins with her interactions with her sister Primrose, aiming to understand how familial
bonds contribute to or challenge conventional gender expectations. 10 The alliance with Rue,
a fellow female tribute, becomes a focal point to highlight themes of solidarity and mutual
1 Gary Ross, 2012 “The Hunger Games,” Lionsgate.
2 Anne Smelik, “Feminist Film Theory,” The Wiley Blackwell Encyclopedia of Gender and Sexuality Studies First Edition,
Edited by Nancy A. Naples, (2016):1, DOI: 10.1002/9781118663219.wbegss148.
3 Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games (London: Scholastic Children’s Books, 2011).
4 Thomas P, Fair, “Theorizing Space and Gender in the 21st Century” Rocky Mountain Review vol. 69, no. 1 (SPRING 2015):
90, http://www.jstor.org/stable/24372866.
5 Fair, “Theorizing Space and Gender,” 91.
6 Smelik, “Feminist Film Theory,” 1.
7 Smelik, “Feminist Film Theory,” 1.
8 Valeri Putri Mentari Ardi, and Bernadus Hidayat. "Katniss Everdeen’s Character Development in Suzanne Collins' The
Hunger Games Trilogy,” LEXICON 5, no. 1 (April 2018): 9, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia.
9 Smelik, “Feminist Film Theory,” 1-2.
10 Smelik, “Feminist Film Theory,” 1-2.
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