The Vampire Diaries is a very popular teen drama that ran for eight seasons on the CW. The show surrounds the life of a teenager named Elena Gilbert and her interactions with a pair of vampire brothers: Damon and Stefan Salvatore (along with many other characters). Although the supernatural aspects of the show keep the show compelling, the relationships and characters displayed are what draw a majority of viewers. The Vampire Diaries repeatedly portrays characters in which they only demonstrate mainly feminine traits or mainly masculine traits – reinforcing many gender stereotypes. If characters resist these stereotypes, their actions are highlighted and applauded.

In the first episode of the Vampire Diaries, everyone’s personas are introduced immediately.

Elena Gilbert – Extremely Feminine:

Elena Gilbert is immediately introduced as the girl all the guys are after – especially Stefan since he moved back to Mystic Falls to form a relationship with her. This ties into a gender stereotype of a girl’s only interest being a relationship, since a majority of her conversations are about either Stefan or her ex Matt.  She is seen as timid, engaging in interactions quietly and shyly – reinforcing the gender stereotype that women are reserved. Also, she is compassionate – going out of her way for her brother and looking out for him, a feminine trait to be caring.

Caroline Forbes

Caroline Forbes is another character to be noted during the show. The only thing Caroline discusses in the pilot is Stefan, and how she wants boys to fawn over her. There is a five-minute scene of Caroline drunk complaining about how no boys like her – and this reinforces the gender stereotype of girls only valuing male admiration.

The Salvatore Brothers

The Salvatore brothers are introduced in the show to be seen as complete opposite. Stefan Salvatore is caring, sweet, not wanting to hurt anyone with his vampire ways. In fact, Stefan writes in a journal (which is shocking to Elena), which demonstrates how Stefan defies masculine stereotypes by being in touch with his feelings. Damon Salvatore is tough, violent and mocks his brother about his affection toward Elena. Damon Salvatore demonstrates the gender stereotype of masculinity having to be a form of aggression.

Shared by: Alexis Masino
Image Credit: https://dvdbash.com/2014/02/17/the-vampire-diaries-season-1-promo-photos/