From princesses to heroines : a critical discourse analysis of gender roles in modern Disney songs

Abstract

This paper addresses the ongoing debate surrounding the existence of traditional gender traits in modern Disney Princess movies, with a particular focus on the linguistic analysis of gender roles depicted in the selected songs of the movie Frozen. The objective of the study is to examine the language used by male and female characters in these songs and explore the extent to which they adhere to or deviate from traditional gender roles. To achieve this, the paper employs a critical discourse analysis model, specifically Fairclough's (2013) framework, which includes transitivity analysis based on Halliday (1967), and incorporates gender difference theory by Tannen (2003). By utilizing these analytical approaches, the study conducts a comprehensive examination of the lyrical texts in selected Disney songs, aiming to reveal the gender roles portrayed by male and female characters from the perspectives of experiential metafunction and gendered linguistics. The analysis of transitivity resources reveals that the three main characters exhibit a wide range of process types and participants in their gendered clauses, albeit with distinct distributions. Prince Hans exemplifies traditional masculine traits by seeking status. Princess Anna, on the other hand, embodies traditional feminine traits, expressing emotions, intimacy, and a desire for understanding. Queen Elsa assumes a more nuanced gender role, transitioning from the traditional feminine trait of expressing emotions to encompassing more egalitarian roles that include masculine traits such as independence and the pursuit of status. The findings of the analysis indicate that Prince Hans and Princess Anna tend to conform to traditional male and female traits, respectively. In contrast, Queen Elsa portrays a more androgynous role, incorporating both traditional masculine and feminine traits.