Gender and Traits Coincide
In this episode, Mel and Jack both express traits that go along with their gender. For example, we see Mel utilize Expressive Traits when she shows her care for the baby she helped to deliver, as well as sensitivity to others when she mentioned to Jack, ‘I’m so sorry I got you into this.’ The later example shows Mel thinking about Jack’s well-being, and realizes that he would not be in a dangerous situation if she were not involved. Additionally, Jack shows Instrumental Traits when he is assertive and tells the drug dealer, ‘Wherever she goes I go too.’ He says this in a very stern and demanding voice which shows him taking control of the situation and being ready to protect Mel.
Gender and Traits Contradict
We also watch Mel and Jack exhibit traits that are typically associated with the opposite gender. For example, we watch Mel utilize assertiveness when she mentions early on in the episode to the man with the gun that she will only go with him as long as Jack can come too. She then proceeds to tell the man with the gun, ‘Let’s go.’ This phrase and circumstance would not be a typical trait that is associated with women. We see Jack exhibit Expressive Traits when he is caring for Mel. Throughout the night he is watching over her and making sure she is warmed by the fire, and taken care of. These are not typical traits that go along with Instrumental Traits, which are thought of as more masculine than feminine.
Going Forward
As I continue to analyze these traits and gender and sex roles, I am interested to see how the characters develop and to see which traits develop more.
Shared by: Lucca Kenyon
Image Credit: https://www.netflix.com/watch/80994392?trackId=14170289&tctx=20da000aa5-4794-4595-9f7f-3a46d6291a4e-6714340e0003cab-17c4-4894-a33f-429dfc122ca6_16134749X3XX1632258376924e0003cab-17c4-4894-a33f-429dfc122ca6_ROOT