Analyzing Gender

Stereotypes in "The Maze

Runner" from the Radical
Feminist Perspective
This analysis examines how the popular film "The Maze Runner" portrays
gender roles and stereotypes through a radical feminist lens. It explores the
representation of female characters, the power dynamics between genders, and
the overall adherence to traditional gender norms in the film.
Overview of the Radical Feminist Approach
1 Challenges Patriarchal 2 Intersectional Analysis 3 Transformation of Gender
Power Radical feminists also Norms
Radical feminism seeks to emphasize the intersections of The radical approach aims to
dismantle the systemic gender with other forms of transform the traditional gender
oppression of women by marginalization, such as race, norms and power dynamics that
challenging the patriarchal class, and sexuality. perpetuate the subordination of
structures that uphold male women.
dominance in society.
Representation of Gender Roles in "The Maze Runner"
Dominant Male Characters Passive Female Characters Lack of Diverse Representation
The film primarily focuses on the The female characters, such as Teresa, The film's cast is predominantly white
male protagonist, Thomas, and his are often portrayed in more passive and cisgender, neglecting the
male-dominated group of and supporting roles, reinforcing experiences of marginalized gender
companions as they navigate the traditional gender stereotypes. identities and intersections of
challenges of the maze. identity.
Portrayal of Female Characters and Stereotypes
Damsel in Distress
Teresa, the sole prominent female character, is often
depicted as needing rescue and protection from the
male protagonists.
Romantic Interest
Teresa's role is often reduced to being a romantic
interest for the male lead, Thomas, reinforcing
traditional gender norms.
Emotional and Intuitive
Teresa's character is portrayed as emotionally sensitive
and relying on intuition rather than logic or physical
strength.
Lack of Agency
The female characters in the film have limited agency
and decision-making power, adhering to patriarchal
narratives.
Masculinity and Power Dynamics in the Film
Hypermasculinity
The male characters in the film exhibit exaggerated
displays of traditional masculine traits, such as physical
strength, aggression, and stoicism.
Subordination of Femininity
The film's narrative and character dynamics suggest that
traditionally feminine qualities are inferior and less
valuable than masculine traits.

1 2 3

Leadership and Decision-Making

The male characters, particularly Thomas, are positioned
as the dominant leaders and decision-makers,
reinforcing patriarchal power structures.
Intersectionality and Marginalization of
Diverse Identities
1 Lack of Racial Diversity
The film's predominantly white cast fails
to represent the diversity of the young
adult dystopian genre and neglects the
experiences of marginalized racial
groups.
2 Heteronormative Assumptions
The film's emphasis on traditional
romantic relationships and gender roles
perpetuates heteronormative
assumptions, excluding LGBTQ+
identities and experiences.

3 Disability Representation
The film does not adequately address the experiences of characters with disabilities,
further marginalizing these identities within the narrative.
Critique of the Film's Adherence to Traditional Gender
Norms
1 2 3

Reinforcing Patriarchal Perpetuating Stereotypes Lack of Intersectional Approach

Structures
The film's portrayal of gender roles
and power dynamics reinforces the
patriarchal structures that radical
feminists seek to dismantle.
The limited and stereotypical
representation of female characters
and feminine qualities perpetuates
harmful gender stereotypes.
The film's failure to address the
intersections of gender with other
forms of identity and marginalization
is a significant shortcoming from a
radical feminist perspective.
Conclusion and Recommendations for Inclusive
Storytelling

Diverse Representation Subvert Stereotypes Intersectional Approach

Encourage more diverse casting and Challenge traditional gender norms Adopt an intersectional lens that
character development to reflect the and stereotypes by portraying female considers the complexities of identity
full spectrum of gender identities, characters with agency, strength, and and the experiences of marginalized
races, and abilities. multifaceted identities. groups.