Yielding to the rite/ right femininity: ad(o)/(a)pting to gender performativity
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2025-1449Palavras-chave:
performativity, sexual agency, femininity, gender norms, feminist, patriarchy, gender expectation, complianceResumo
Introduction: The acclaimed ex-Disney star Hannah Montana underwent a radical transformation in her coming of adulthood and becoming Miley Cyrus. This change sparked some controversy and criticism, particularly following her performance at the 2013 VMAs. Methodology: To analyse this situation, Judith Butler’s theories on gender performativity are particularly instrumental. Results: Applying gender performativity, when analysing the harsh criticism the singer received, sheds light on the patriarchal assumption that seem to inform this antagonism, especially when compared to other performances that same night. Conclusions: The media harassment Cyrus faced may stem from her non-adherence to expected patriarchal gender stereotypes. Her confident and bold performance could in fact be seen as an act of feminist empowerment. Currently, Cyrus presents herself as a less subversive and more conforming public character, which coincidentally or not, just so happens to be more popular and seems to receive kinder press by the media.
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