Sexual Violence in Game of Thrones
Abstract
Rape culture extended into popular culture, including the wildly well-received HBO series Game of Thrones. Between Seasons 7 and 8, the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements went viral, challenging rape culture in all aspects of American life. To examine the use of sexual violence in mainstream media, Game of Thrones was analyzed to explore three areas: the effects of sexual violence on characters, the effects of sexual violence on relationships, and how depictions of sexual violence changed between Seasons 1-7 and Season 8. The method of inquiry used was critical analysis, which was employed after two viewings of each episode of the series. Instances of sexual violence were noted and details examined, before analyzing the number of instances in each season. Results showed an unrealistic and problematic use of sexual violence in Game of Thrones. Victims of sexual violence were often portrayed as having few aftereffects. Relationships between the victim and perpetrator were a mixed bag, with Cersei proclaiming her love for her perpetrator, while characters such as Sansa exacted revenge. Lastly, a change was noted in acts of sexual violence, both in the number of instances and the intensity between Seasons of 1-7 and Season 8. In conclusion, sexual violence was a mina trope used in Game of Thrones to create and support male power in the patriarchal civilization of Westeros. The use of the trope changed with the popularity of #MeToo and #TimesUp, reducing the sexual violence, and the change was enacted in part by the actors playing the victims within the show.
Degree
M.A.
Advisors
LeBlanc, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Criminology|Mass communications|Social structure|Web Studies
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