The 50th anniversary of Barbie, in 2009, was celebrated in New York with a display of Barbie dolls from different eras, starting with the original doll in a black-and-white swimsuit. Craig Ruttle/Associated Press. The recent Barbie movie has been a huge success, bringing back the joy of dress-up and sparking discussions about feminism. Many people are wondering whether a doll that has been criticized for promoting outdated gender norms and unrealistic body image can be considered a feminist icon. The movie is set in Barbieland, a colorful utopia where women hold all the positions of power and men are peripheral. Director Greta Gerwig and other supporters argue that the film is feminist, while Mattel executives disagree. Barbie has always been a controversial figure since its introduction in 1959. The doll was created by Ruth Handler, who wanted to show girls that they could be anything. However, she herself did not identify as a feminist. Barbie has faced criticism for its unrealistic body proportions and for perpetuating traditional gender norms. Despite the backlash, the doll has endured and has been the subject of heated debates. Barbie is seen by some as a feminist symbol, while others view it as a reflection of society’s fears and prejudices. The rise of Barbie is closely linked to the feminist movement. The doll was inspired by Bild Lilli, a German doll that was initially created as a joke for men. Barbie was designed to be a fashion-forward doll with a career, challenging traditional gender roles. However, second-wave feminists criticized the doll for its appearance, and the National Organization for Women accused Mattel of gender stereotyping in the 1970s. Over time, feminism evolved, and so did Barbie. The doll became more inclusive, introducing dolls of different ethnicities and body types. Barbie also began representing inspiring female figures and people with disabilities. This shift in representation was influenced by the body positivity movement and modern-day feminism’s focus on intersectionality. Barbie is more than just a doll or a label. It has become a metaphor and an image used by writers and artists. It also holds a special place in the imaginations of children who play with it. The recent Barbie movie reflects the way young girls play with their dolls, from creative alterations to embracing girl power.
The Complex Role of Barbie as a Feminist Icon: A Thought-Provoking Exploration – NPR
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