The Existence of Medieval Gender Archetypes in Present Day Culture Essa

The Existence of Medieval Gender Archetypes in Present Day Culture One of the aspects of the Middle Ages which is explored by numerous scholars today is that of the antifeminist stereotypes which pervaded literature and cultural mores during the period. In an era governed by men, the fact that women were treated as inferior is unsurprising; archetypal visions of femininity fit neatly into medieval history. However, most people would like to believe that such pigeonholing has been left in the past, allowing for more liberated times in which women are portrayed realistically and as the equals of men. It is undeniably true that an equality of the sexes exists today that was not even imagined in the medieval era. However, this rise in respect for women does not guarantee that all of the prejudices and stereotypes from preceding centuries have fallen by the wayside; on the contrary, most of the same archetypes are alive and well, even if modified to suit a new world. From the unattainably perfect virgin to the sexually insatiable temptress, these images appear throughout modern culture-but the disturbing nature of their existence is made far worse by the complacency with which women accept and further them. In many places, control of the image of women has passed into their own hands, yet broad generalizations and negative suggestions continue to fill daily life. Though images of women may cluster in many categories, the basic medieval archetypes are these: foremost is the Courtly Lady, a physically perfect and emotionally restrained creature that any gallant knight would pine for, the subject of innumerable poems. Her supporting cast include the lascivious Wanton Woman, a subhuman creature designed to tempt and torture men... ...owing Up Female With the Mass Media. New York: Times Books, 1995. Farhi, Paul and Megan Rosenfeld. "Made in America." 10 April 2003. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/inatl/longterm/mia/part1.htm "4 Ways to Punish a Naughty Boy." Cosmopolitan Apr. 2003: 166. Goins, Liesa. "Flirting Moves No Man Can Resist." Cosmopolitan Apr. 2003: 146-48. Keyishian, Amy. "Chick Flick Survival Guide." Maxim Apr. 2003: 78-82. Lewis, Carol. "Botox Cosmetic: A Look at Looking Good." FDA Consumer Magazine. 6 April 2003. http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2002/402_botox.html Lont, Cynthia M. Women and Media: Content/ Careers/ Criticism. Scarborough: Nelson Canada, 1995. Rogers, Mary F. Barbie Culture. Thousand Oaks: SAGE Publications, 1999. Straus, Alex. "Access Granted." Maxim Apr. 2003: 164-68. Walsh, John. "Top Gear: Bachelor Pad." Maxim Apr. 2003: 194-96.