A Semiotic Analysis of the Stereotypes Regarding the Physiological Characteristics of Chinese Mothers as Representation in the Magazine "Pavilion of Women"
List of Authors
Hamidi Abdul Hadi, Issarezal Ismail, Yang Fang
Keyword
semiotic analysis, stereotypes, physiological characteristics, Chinese mothers
Abstract
This research employs the Hollywood film "Pavilion of Women" as a case study. The primary research subject in the film is the character of Mrs. Wu's mother, with an emphasis on the examination and analysis of the stereotype associated with Mrs. Wu's physical attributes. This research employs a semiotic analysis methodology. In recent years, the portrayal of Chinese women in Hollywood films has emerged as a significant area of research, particularly between 2010 and 2020, during when the volume of studies in this domain peaked, reflecting considerable interest from the academic community. Historically, the Western stereotype of Chinese social culture and the portrayal of women has evolved through several phases: the era of respect (18th century), the era of contempt (1840-1905), the era of benevolence (1905-1937), the era of administration (1937-1944), and the era of disillusionment (1944-1949). Nonetheless, there remains a paucity of research regarding the stereotype of Chinese moms, and the utilization of semiotic analysis in this domain is constrained. This study employs semiotic theory to elucidate how Hollywood films influence perceptions of maternal physiological traits, so establishing a theoretical foundation for future research.