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They are, in a sense, two sides of the same coin: women…

“They are, in a sense, two sides of the same coin: women are, on the one hand, subjects of an extremely real and abject (as Julia Kristeva put it) body and denigrated sexuality; on the other, the proliferation of images, and their digitalisation produces more and more abstract and air-brushed…” quote by Laura Mulvey
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“They are, in a sense, two sides of the same coin: women are, on the one hand, subjects of an extremely real and abject (as Julia Kristeva put it) body and denigrated sexuality; on the other, the proliferation of images, and their digitalisation produces more and more abstract and air-brushed representations of impossible female bodies. Both indicate, certainly, a "lack of progress." But, one hopes, discussions and resistance are emerging in response.”

Laura Mulvey

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote critiques how women are both objectified as real bodies and idealized as abstract, digitally altered images, highlighting a stagnation in gender representation and the hope for emerging resistance.

In simple terms: Women are shown as real bodies and unrealistic digital images, showing little progress.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge both objectification and unrealistic standards.

Themes

gender representation media criticism digital culture feminist theory

Mood

critical hopeful

Type

analytical activist

When to use this quote

  • film analysis
  • advertising critique
  • social media activism
  • academic discourse
  • artistic practice

Key Concepts

objectification idealization media saturation resistance intersectionality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do digital images affect self-perception?
  • What can be done to promote authentic representation?
A Different Perspective

The quote may overlook progress already made in some media sectors.

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