My article included theories of myths, stereotypes, heroes and formulas. The theories that best relate to the article are heroes and stereotypes. The characters of Xena, Buffy and Nikita are presented as heroes but treated as stereotypes. There are many negative stereotypes of women as sexy super heroes. They are portrayed as puppets of the male writer. I was surprised to see that so many critics were accepting of these characters being portrayed this way. During the popularity of these shows there was never any controversy or protest in the mainstream media. The shows’ popularity soared among fans and critics. It isn’t until recently that people have voiced opinion on the portrayal of female heroes in film and television. Feminists are becoming more outspoken in the media and bringing focus on these types of characters. With the creation of more female heroes there are more female characters being focused on as role models for girls and women. An article like Magoulick’s should be used as a formula to help build positive characters instead of repeating past mistakes. (Magoulick, 2006)

Works Cited

Magoulick, M. (2006). Frustrating Female Heroism: Mixed Messages in Xena, Nikita, and Buffy. Popular Culture, 729.

Browne, R. B., & Browne, R. B. (2005). Profiles of popular culture: a reader. Madison, Wis: University of Wisconsin Press.