Why Is Barbie Breaking Feminist Classic
Kylee Farnum
Lori Rogers
ENG 201
September 18, 2015
Barbie: Breaking Feminist Barriers
Barbie, arguably one of the most influential global icons of our time, made her big debut in New York City in 1959 at the American Toy Fair (“Barbie’s Debut”). From the beginning, Barbie’s unrealistic proportions, glamorously extensive wardrobe, and her bold independence have stirred up vast controversy in American culture. However, she represents much more than a tan, blonde, leggy, blue-eyed figurine; she exemplifies opposition to the time-honored traditions that were held so dear by the 1950s era. Barbie symbolizes the many transformations that were taking place during this postwar time period in regards to gender roles, sexuality, and consumerism. …show more content…
She was not going to be limited by dressing sensibly, bearing and raising children, and taking care of her husband and household: as was expected of a “respectable” woman during this time period. Instead, refusing to be a victim of formerly held paradigms, Barbie took matters into her own hands. For example, “Babysitter Barbie” found means of earning money for herself by looking after children, one of the only jobs available for women at that epoch. In addition, “She has had a series of 150 different jobs, from airline stewardess, doctor, pilot and astronaut to Olympic athlete and even an U.S. presidential candidate” (“Barbie’s …show more content…
America’s modern culture has exploded with countless transformations, and does not show signs of ceasing any time soon. Even today, Barbie exemplifies our modern diverse American culture. As of late, Mattel, the inventor of Barbie, “has created 23 different dolls that will represent eight skin tones, 14 facial structures, 22 hairstyles, 23 hair colors and 18 eye colors” (Hetter). Regardless of the vast opposition Barbie has faced for her idealistic figure and assets, she will forever portray a powerful symbol of
Lori Rogers
ENG 201
September 18, 2015
Barbie: Breaking Feminist Barriers
Barbie, arguably one of the most influential global icons of our time, made her big debut in New York City in 1959 at the American Toy Fair (“Barbie’s Debut”). From the beginning, Barbie’s unrealistic proportions, glamorously extensive wardrobe, and her bold independence have stirred up vast controversy in American culture. However, she represents much more than a tan, blonde, leggy, blue-eyed figurine; she exemplifies opposition to the time-honored traditions that were held so dear by the 1950s era. Barbie symbolizes the many transformations that were taking place during this postwar time period in regards to gender roles, sexuality, and consumerism. …show more content…
She was not going to be limited by dressing sensibly, bearing and raising children, and taking care of her husband and household: as was expected of a “respectable” woman during this time period. Instead, refusing to be a victim of formerly held paradigms, Barbie took matters into her own hands. For example, “Babysitter Barbie” found means of earning money for herself by looking after children, one of the only jobs available for women at that epoch. In addition, “She has had a series of 150 different jobs, from airline stewardess, doctor, pilot and astronaut to Olympic athlete and even an U.S. presidential candidate” (“Barbie’s …show more content…
America’s modern culture has exploded with countless transformations, and does not show signs of ceasing any time soon. Even today, Barbie exemplifies our modern diverse American culture. As of late, Mattel, the inventor of Barbie, “has created 23 different dolls that will represent eight skin tones, 14 facial structures, 22 hairstyles, 23 hair colors and 18 eye colors” (Hetter). Regardless of the vast opposition Barbie has faced for her idealistic figure and assets, she will forever portray a powerful symbol of