Mass media, art, and literature have played a significant role in shaping societal perceptions of what is considered beautiful. Traditionally, heteronormative values have been upheld through these mediums, which often depict women and men who conform to stereotypical gender roles and present white skin as desirable.
There has been an increasing shift towards embracing diversity in recent years. This shift has challenged traditional notions of beauty and normalized previously stigmatized identities such as those related to sexual orientation. The representation of queer individuals in media, art, and literature can help challenge normative beauty standards while affirming diverse queer identities.
The impact of media, art, and literature on society's perception of beauty cannot be underestimated.
Advertising and fashion industries rely heavily on these mediums to promote their products, which are typically designed for cisgender, able-bodied, and conventionally attractive individuals. In addition, films, television shows, books, and magazines often portray narrow beauty ideals that glorify a specific body type or appearance. Such representations can lead to self-esteem issues, especially among young people who may feel pressured to fit into unrealistic expectations. Nonetheless, some artists, authors, filmmakers, and other creators have taken it upon themselves to challenge these norms by showcasing diverse bodies, personalities, and sexual orientations.
One way media, art, and literature have challenged normative beauty standards is by presenting characters who do not adhere to conventional beauty standards. Many writers, directors, painters, and other creatives have produced works that celebrate the unique features of queer individuals. These works serve as a reflection of reality and help audiences understand that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Some examples include "Brokeback Mountain," a movie about two gay men who navigate the difficulties of living in rural America; "Girlfriends," a book about an interracial lesbian couple navigating racism; and "Transparent," a TV series about a transgender woman coming out to her family. By creating such narratives, creators encourage viewers to reconsider what they think is beautiful.
Another way media, art, and literature have affirmed diverse identities is by incorporating themes related to sex and intimacy. Many works feature same-sex relationships, non-binary gender identities, and kinky fetishes.
"Call Me By Your Name" tells the story of a gay man's relationship with his older lover, while "Normal People" explores the complexities of a polyamorous romance between three people. Such portrayals normalize different types of relationships, which can be liberating for LGBTQ+ individuals who may feel stigmatized or rejected due to their identity. In addition, these works create a safe space where people can explore their sexuality without judgment.
Some critics argue that media, art, and literature still perpetuate harmful stereotypes despite their efforts to challenge normative beauty standards.
Characters who identify as queer are often written as hypersexualized or overly emotional, reinforcing negative stereotypes. Similarly, depictions of queer individuals as victims of violence or discrimination can suggest that being LGBTQ+ is dangerous or abnormal. While progress has been made in recent years, there is still room for improvement regarding representation in mass media, art, and literature.
Media, art, and literature play an essential role in shaping societal perceptions of beauty and have become powerful agents of social change. They have challenged traditional notions of what is considered beautiful by presenting diverse bodies, personalities, and sexual orientations.
More work needs to be done to eliminate harmful stereotypes and ensure that all communities are accurately represented. Nonetheless, the impact of creators on society's perception of beauty cannot be ignored.
How do media, art, and literature challenge normative beauty standards while affirming diverse queer identities?
Media, art, and literature have become an essential part of our daily lives as they provide us with insights into different realms. Their influences on our thoughts, values, and beliefs are undeniable. Media, art, and literature can be powerful tools for challenging normative beauty standards while also affirming diverse queer identities.