230697 Marginalized Groups in North American Media (Teil II) (S) (WiSe 2015/2016)

The United States and Canada are commonly referred to as model multicultural societies, implying diversity and equality of the nations' numerous social groups and subcultures. Scrutinizing media landscapes of North America, however, quickly reveals that representations of non-dominant groups are largely framed and determined by the majority, to the point of complete invisibility of some groups.
In this class, we will look at the representations of marginalized groups in North American films, TV series, novels etc. This will include the analysis of the language(s) and language varieties used as well as the visibility, agency, empowerment, stereotyping or ridiculing of different social groups. Furthermore, we will deal with topics such as authenticity, power, (self-)identity formation, style-shifting, audiences, media types and genres.