Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

Spring 5-7-2021

Faculty Advisor(s)

Polly Hodge

Abstract

Created and popularized by Deborah Tannen, the Genderlect Theory explains how through social contexts, men and women have different ways of communicating. According to Tannen, men focus more on status, while women focus more on forming connections. On the other hand, there is also machismo, the behavior and attitude men partake to show that they are “manly” or “superior” to women and others they deem as inferior. Through the literary theatrical works, "La llamada de Lauren" by Paloma Pedrero and "Entre Villa y una mujer" desnuda by Sabina Berman, we can see similarities and differences in the Genderlect Theory and patriarchy in society. The Genderlect Theory is essentially a guide of expected gendered communication patterns; however, there has been some criticism since the creation of this theory, as some of the ideas ultimately portray stereotypes. Both Genderlect Theory and patriarchal culture are formed by social norms and individuals sometimes do not conform to these norms. Members of a society often feel pressured to fit in and follow what is expected of them based on established norms. We see that in "La llamada de Lauren" and "Entre Villa y una mujer desnuda," the characters struggle internally with the pressure to conform to societal norms and debate how much of their individual wants and needs they are willing to neglect. Additionally, people have unique identities and are affected by the era they live in. In "La llamada de Lauren," Pedro adapts to expectations of being a “man,” but in reality, wants to live his life true to his homosexual identity. Rosa, his wife, is dedicated to having a conversation with Pedro to discuss and work on their relationship. In "Entre Villa y una mujer desnuda," Adrián acts as a macho man idolizing the famous Mexican revolutionary leader, Pancho Villa, and Gina is an independent woman, but partially conforms to the stereotypical submissive, female role in the beginning of the play until she realizes what she truly wants.

Comments

Presented at the virtual Spring 2021 Student Scholar Symposium at Chapman University.

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