Bewitched Again: Supernaturally Powerful Women on Television, 1996-2011

Julie D. O'Reilly

Bewitched Again: Supernaturally Powerful Women on Television, 1996-2011
Format
Paperback
Publisher
McFarland & Co Inc
Country
United States
Published
31 May 2013
Pages
248
ISBN
9780786447114

Bewitched Again: Supernaturally Powerful Women on Television, 1996-2011

Julie D. O'Reilly

This title is printed to order. This book may have been self-published. If so, we cannot guarantee the quality of the content. In the main most books will have gone through the editing process however some may not. We therefore suggest that you be aware of this before ordering this book. If in doubt check either the author or publisher’s details as we are unable to accept any returns unless they are faulty. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Starting in 1996, U.S. television saw an influx of super human female characters who could materialise objects like Sabrina the Teenage Witch, defeat evil like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and have premonitions like Charmed Phoebe. The extraordinary abilities of these women showed resistance to traditional gender roles–while the super women experienced infringements on their abilities in ways super powered men did not.

Supernatural heroines have remained on television, including the heavenly connected Grace (of Saving Grace), telepathic Sookie (of True Blood), and magical Cassie (of The Secret Circle). These more recent characters also face numerous constraints on their powers. As a result, superpowers become a narrative technique to diminish these characters, a technique that began with television’s first super powered woman, Samantha (of Bewitched). They all illustrate a paradox of women’s power: are these characters ever truly powerful, much less super powerful, if they cannot use their abilities fully? The television superwomen have endured as a metaphor for women trying to

have it all,

as their travails parallel those of their off-screen counterparts.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in 7-14 days

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.