ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing ArtsISSN (Online): 2582-7472
Unboxing New Masculinity: Analysing Ken’s Evolution in Barbie’23 Javairia Nousheen 1 1 Research
Scholar, Department of English, REVA University, Karnataka, India 2 Research
Guide & Associate Professor, Department of English, REVA University,
Karnataka, India
1. INTRODUCTION In today's
society, there is a growing recognition that traditional notions of masculinity
are overly narrow and can be detrimental. The concept of rethinking
masculinities refers to a contemporary approach that challenges and redefines
traditional stereotypes and norms associated with masculinity. To provide a
contextual foundation for this paper, exploring the evolution of Barbie and
Ken, iconic figures created in the early 1960s in the Western world is
imperative. This historical context is crucial for justifying our critical
exploration of masculinity in a toy icon that originates from the West. The
analysis extends to Hollywood's global influence, considering its pervasive
role in shaping mainstream cinema worldwide. Hollywood's representation of gender
roles and masculinity plays a pivotal role in the broader cultural discourse,
and understanding its impact is essential for a comprehensive exploration of
masculinity in media. Literature and
media play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of masculinity among younger
readers due to their formative influence. Young minds are particularly
impressionable, and the stories they encounter during childhood and adolescence
can have a lasting impact on their understanding of gender roles and identity.
For instance, traditional fairy tales often feature male protagonists who
embody stereotypical traits such as strength and heroism, while female
characters are relegated to passive roles. This perpetuates the idea that
masculinity is synonymous with dominance and physical prowess, reinforcing
traditional gender norms. Researchers such as Varney (2002) have delved into
the images of masculinity portrayed in boys' toys, revealing the intricate
relationship between cultural expectations and the construction of young boys'
identities. Additionally, Weissman (1999) provides an analytical interpretation
of the Barbie doll, shedding light on how popular culture, through iconic
figures like Barbie, contributes to shaping societal ideals. In contemporary
society, there is a growing recognition that traditional notions of masculinity
are excessively narrow and potentially harmful. This paper explores the
evolution of masculinity, focusing on the iconic figures of Barbie and Ken. To
provide a comprehensive understanding, it is imperative to delve into specific
years of their creation, rooted in the Western world. The critical stance of
probing into masculinity within the context of a toy icon originating from the
West demands a justified explanation. The research
problem extends beyond the movie's portrayal of masculinity; it necessitates a
scientific examination of toys' influence on gender roles and responsibilities.
This exploration is grounded in studies around children's stories, fairy tales,
and toys in Western societies, integral to socialization. Additionally, the
influence of Hollywood in shaping mainstream cinema, especially in the West,
adds a distinct layer to the inquiry. A seminal work in this field is the
American Psychological Association's (APA) guidelines for psychological
practice with boys and men, which was published in 2018. The APA highlights the
importance of addressing issues such as emotional suppression, aggression, and
the pressure to conform to traditional male stereotypes. These guidelines
emphasize the need for a more inclusive and flexible understanding of
masculinity to promote healthier development in boys and men. The relevance of
rethinking masculinities is underscored by contemporary social and cultural
shifts. Movements like #MeToo have exposed the damaging consequences of toxic
masculinity, while LGBTQ+ rights advocacy has challenged conventional gender
norms. This rethinking
is driven by the understanding that rigid gender roles can lead to a range of
issues, including toxic masculinity, mental health problems, and limited
opportunities for self-expression. Examining the portrayal of masculinity in
children's and young adult literature is essential because it can either
reinforce or challenge these stereotypes. Positive and diverse representations
of masculinity can promote empathy, emotional intelligence, and a broader
spectrum of male identities among young readers. Conversely, reinforcing
traditional stereotypes can limit boys' and girls' perceptions of what it means
to be a man or a woman, potentially leading to harmful behaviours and attitudes The study at hand
revolves around the impact of the portrayal of masculinity in media, with a
specific focus on the movie "Barbie." While the movie itself
presents an intriguing depiction of masculinity, the study aims to delve deeper
and explore the broader implications of this portrayal. The central concern is
understanding how children's media, such as "Barbie," can be a
powerful agent of change in shaping societal attitudes towards gender roles and
identity. By analysing the movie's representation of masculinity and its
effects on young viewers, this research seeks to contribute to the ongoing
discourse surrounding the need to reimagine and diversify masculinity in media.
To address this, we must critically examine our research object— "Barbie"
(2023) — and move beyond a mere restatement of the movie's intentions. How does
this paper strike a distance from the movie, and how does it contribute unique
insights beyond what the movie explicit? The research
objective is twofold: firstly, to undertake a detailed analysis of the 2023
"Barbie" movie, with a specific focus on its depiction of
masculinity, particularly examining the characters of Ken and Barbie and their
roles in reshaping conventional gender norms. Secondly, the study aims to
contextualize the evolution of Barbie and Ken within a larger socio-cultural
framework, encompassing their origins in the 1960s and tracing the influence of
Western societal changes on the portrayal of gender roles in children's media
over the years. This research seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of how
the film contributes to the redefinition of traditional gender norms and
explores the broader historical and cultural forces that have shaped the iconic
characters of Barbie and Ken. 2. Evolution of Masculinity in Media and its Impact The
representation of masculinity in media and literature has been a focal point of
academic inquiry for several decades, tracing its roots back to early
children's literature where male characters were often depicted adhering to
conventional masculinity stereotypes, emphasizing qualities such as physical
strength, bravery, and independence. This thematic thread is exemplified by
classic tales like "Peter Pan" and "The Hardy
Boys" series, which underscored societal norms prevalent during
their creation in the mid-20th century. However, as societal perspectives on
gender roles have undergone profound transformations, so too has the landscape
of children's literature. In response to evolving understandings of gender,
authors have gradually begun challenging traditional stereotypes by introducing
male characters characterized by emotional vulnerability, empathy, and a more
diverse range of interests. This shift reflects a broader cultural movement
away from rigid gender norms and towards more inclusive and nuanced
representations of masculinity. Nevertheless, the trajectory of masculinity in
literature is far from a linear progression. It is imperative to consider the
intricate interplay of cultural shifts, evolving societal attitudes, and the
distinct influences of Hollywood on mainstream cinema. The evolution of
masculinity in children's media has become a dynamic process, shaped not only
by literary expressions but also by cinematic narratives. Scholars such as John
Stephens have utilized socialization theory to argue that literature and media significantly
mould young readers' perceptions of gender, reinforcing or challenging societal
norms related to masculinity. Feminist perspectives, represented by scholars
like Carolyn Daniel, scrutinize children's literature from a feminist lens,
critically examining the representation of male characters and their potential
impact on female readers. This perspective emphasizes the importance of
balanced portrayals of masculinity that avoid perpetuating power imbalances.
Moreover, researchers exploring the intersectionality of gender representation
in children's literature have delved into how factors like race, ethnicity, and
cultural backgrounds influence the portrayal of masculinity. The incorporation
of LGBTQ+ characters and themes in literature, drawing from queer theory, has
emerged as a critical exploration challenging heteronormative assumptions about
masculinity. Recent trends in children's literature signal a departure from
traditional stereotypes, with a growing emphasis on male characters displaying
emotional intelligence, empathy, and vulnerability. Works like "Wonder"
by R.J. Palacio and "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green
exemplify this trend, featuring male protagonists who defy stoic stereotypes. The Barbie
movie released in 2023, serves as a compelling cultural artefact challenging
conventional notions of femininity and masculinity. In this cinematic
narrative, Barbie resides in Barbie land, a matriarchal society where diverse
versions of Barbies hold prestigious jobs and enjoy independence. This setting
subverts traditional gender roles, challenging stereotypes that often associate
women with submissive or narrowly defined roles. The film introduces a group of
discontinued models treated as outcasts, emphasizing the movie's critique of
conventional beauty standards and societal expectations related to femininity.
Barbie's journey becomes emblematic of a reimagined heroism and strength within
the context of femininity. Her decision to prioritize female friendships over
romantic relationships challenges the notion that a woman's fulfilment must
solely derive from a romantic partner. The narrative
unfolds as Barbie undergoes an existential crisis, symbolized by physical
changes disrupting her routine, leading her on a journey of self-discovery
typically associated with heroism. A pivotal moment in the movie occurs when
Barbie confronts harassment at Venice Beach, demonstrating her strength and
courage while challenging the societal expectation for women to tolerate such
behaviour. Gloria's inspirational speech further reinforces the theme of
strength in resilience and the power of women supporting each other. Barbie's
collective action with other characters within the narrative reflects the
strength of unity and the ability to challenge oppressive systems, emphasizing
themes of empowerment and self-discovery. As scholars such
as Katie Pickles and Jack Butler offer diverse perspectives on the Barbie
movie, interpreting it as a portrayal of both the strengths and potential
issues within a matriarchal society, the discourse surrounding the film expands
beyond its immediate narrative. Some critics have positioned the movie as a
post-feminist satire, challenging established notions of a utopian feminist
world and satirizing perceived male dominance within that context. By examining
the Barbie movie through a post-feminist lens, we can delve into how the
film navigates and critiques contemporary feminist discourses, addressing the
achievements and potential pitfalls of a matriarchal society. The movie's
resonance with Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, known for reclaiming femininity and
empowering women, adds another layer to its cultural impact. Recognizing this
connection suggests a parallel exploration of the broader influence of both the
movie and the tour on popular culture. Examining the intertwined cultural
influence of these two phenomena enriches the understanding of how popular
media, ranging from movies to musical tours, collectively contributes to
reshaping cultural narratives around femininity and women's empowerment. These
parallels underscore the interconnectedness of cultural phenomena and their
shared impact on societal perceptions and discussions regarding gender
dynamics. In addition to
the scholarly perspectives of Katie Pickles and Jack Butler, the diverse
reception of the Barbie movie prompts a nuanced exploration of its
cultural implications. Beyond being analysed as a matriarchal narrative, the
film has garnered attention as a post-feminist satire, challenging the
conventional portrayal of an idealized feminist world. This interpretation opens up avenues for examining how the movie navigates the
complexities of contemporary feminist discourse, addressing questions of
agency, representation, and power dynamics within a satirical framework. Also,
drawing parallels between the Barbie movie and Taylor Swift's Eras Tour
adds a fascinating layer to the analysis. Both cultural phenomena share a
common theme of reclaiming femininity and empowering women, contributing to a
broader narrative of a feminist resurgence in popular media, acknowledging this
parallel narrative invites exploration of the interconnectedness of these
cultural productions and their collective impact on shaping societal
conversations around gender roles. It suggests a potential synergy in how
different forms of entertainment can collaborate in reinforcing or challenging
cultural norms, fostering a more inclusive and empowered vision of femininity. The Barbie movie
transcends a mere cinematic narrative, becoming a subject of multifaceted
analysis that extends beyond its immediate storyline. The juxtaposition of
perspectives from scholars, the exploration of the film as a post-feminist
satire, and the parallel drawn with Taylor Swift's Eras Tour collectively form
a rich tapestry of cultural commentary. This invites further examination into
how these cultural productions interact with and impact societal understandings
of femininity, empowerment, and gender dynamics, positioning them as
influential contributors to the ongoing discourse on gender representation in
contemporary media. Drawing from
feminist cinema theories can provide a robust theoretical framework for
understanding how the movie engages with feminist ideals and critiques. Laura
Mulvey's "Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema" introduces the
concept of the male gaze, highlighting how traditional cinema often positions
the audience to view characters from a heterosexual male perspective. Applying
Mulvey's theory to the Barbie movie, we can scrutinize how the film
challenges or subverts the male gaze, particularly in its portrayal of Barbie's
agency, self-discovery, and interactions within the matriarchal society of
Barbie Land. Mulvey's lens
allows us to analyse whether the movie disrupts conventional gender dynamics
and redefines the visual pleasure associated with female characters on screen.
Additionally, Rosalind Gill's work on "Postfeminist Media Culture"
becomes pertinent in examining how the Barbie movie navigates the landscape of
post-feminism, which emphasizes individual empowerment and choice while
sometimes perpetuating gendered expectations. Gill's framework helps assess
whether the film reinforces or subverts postfeminist ideals, particularly in
its depiction of Barbie's journey of self-discovery, her responses to
harassment, and her relationships with other characters. Analyzing
the movie through the lens of postfeminist media culture enables a nuanced
exploration of how the narrative aligns with or challenges contemporary
feminist discourses. Moreover, these feminist cinema theories provide tools to
investigate how the movie navigates the complexities of femininity and its
intersections with power, agency, and societal expectations. By applying
Mulvey's and Gill's frameworks, the analysis can uncover subtleties in the
film's narrative, shedding light on whether it reinforces
or challenges established cinematic and cultural norms related to gender,
ultimately contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the Barbie movie's
engagement with feminist ideals. The exploration
of masculinity in literature and media has evolved, reflecting changing
societal attitudes towards gender roles and identities. While contemporary
depictions in children's literature are more likely to offer diverse and
nuanced representations of male characters, the field remains dynamic and
subject to ongoing research. The Barbie movie released in 2023 stands as
a remarkable contribution to this discourse, challenging conventional norms and
portraying a matriarchal society that prompts critical reflections on
femininity and masculinity. As we unravel the intricate connections between
literature, media, and societal attitudes, the portrayal of masculinity in
children's entertainment remains a rich and evolving area of study, influencing
perceptions and fostering a more inclusive understanding of gender. 3. Progressive Portrayal: Gender Representation and Critical Reception The 2023 Barbie
movie, a groundbreaking exploration of gender representation, particularly
masculinity, delves into the nuances of contemporary societal shifts. Extending
beyond traditional narratives, the film invites a critical examination of how
it navigates the complex terrain of 'woke' sensibilities. Drawing parallels
with feminist cinema theories, such as Laura Mulvey's "Visual Pleasure and
Narrative Cinema," offers a lens to dissect visual dynamics and the
portrayal of Barbie's agency within the matriarchal society. Additionally,
Rosalind Gill's "Postfeminist Media Culture" helps unravel the film's
alignment with postfeminist ideals, shedding light on whether it reinforces or
challenges postfeminist discourses. These theoretical
frameworks contribute depth to the analysis, enriching our understanding of the
film's engagement with contemporary feminist conversations. Ken's character
undergoes a profound emotional journey, challenging stereotypical
representations of masculinity. To illustrate the evolution of masculinity, we
can situate Ken's narrative within the broader societal changes since his
inception in the 1960s. For instance, in early Barbie commercials, Ken was
often depicted as the confident, assertive companion to Barbie. The 2023 movie
takes a radical departure from this, presenting Ken as a character with
emotional depth and vulnerability. This shift aligns with evolving cultural
expectations of men, moving away from rigid stereotypes towards more emotionally
expressive and introspective portrayals. The movie's
alignment with cultural conversations around gender equality, particularly in
the wake of movements like #MeToo, positions it as a significant cultural
artefact. It becomes a powerful medium not only challenging traditional gender
norms but also contributing to ongoing discussions about what it means to be
masculine in contemporary society. Also drawing parallels between the movie and
the Eras Tour added an intriguing layer, showcasing how both cultural phenomena
reclaim femininity and empower women. For example, Swift's tour is known for
its inclusive ethos, celebrating diverse expressions of femininity and
championing women's voices. This parallel narrative reinforces the impact of
both the movie and the tour in reshaping societal perceptions of gender
roles. In terms of
gender stereotypes, Ken's character challenges traditional notions by being
portrayed as a beach enthusiast, subverting the expectation of engaging in
conventionally "masculine" activities. This aligns with broader
conversations about breaking down gendered interests and encouraging
individuals to pursue activities based on personal preferences rather than
societal expectations. The movie also prompts discussions on masculinity by
addressing men's struggles and identity crises. For instance, Ken's response to
societal expectations and his search for self-esteem can be analysed in the
context of broader discussions around toxic masculinity. Comparing Ken's
journey to real-world movements, such as the men's rights movement, offers a
dynamic perspective on how the film engages with contemporary social issues. If we examine the
use of the musical genre in the film, it offers a unique perspective on how
artistic choices contribute to the narrative. For instance, the incorporation
of specific musical motifs during moments of character development or emotional
revelation can be analysed to understand how the film uses music as a tool for
conveying messages about femininity, masculinity, and societal expectations.
Additionally, exploring the movie's negotiation of its capitalist identity and
societal critiques adds complexity to the analysis. By questioning how the film
operates within the capitalist system while critiquing it, we gain insights
into the movie's dual role as both a commercial product and a social
commentary. The critical reception and audience reactions to the Barbie movie
highlight its resonance with contemporary viewers. For instance, positive
reviews praise the film for its progressive approach to gender representation,
emphasizing how it challenges traditional stereotypes and promotes more diverse
and positive portrayals of masculinity. By incorporating these aspects, the
analysis gains depth, showcasing the cultural impact of the film and its
significance in shaping evolving attitudes towards gender roles in children's
entertainment. Barbie's movie transcends conventional cinematic
analysis, unfolding as a multifaceted discourse on gender representation and
societal expectations. Scholars such as
Katie Pickles and Jack Butler introduce diverse perspectives, interpreting the
film as a nuanced portrayal of both the strengths and potential issues within a
matriarchal society. This discourse expands beyond the movie's immediate narrative,
encompassing discussions on post-feminism and its satire, notably challenging
perceptions of an idealized feminist world. The juxtaposition with Taylor
Swift's Eras Tour adds complexity to the cultural impact, intertwining
narratives of femininity reclamation and female empowerment. Acknowledging this
parallel narrative prompts a broader exploration of the interconnected
influence of these cultural phenomena on reshaping societal perceptions of
gender roles. The film's
engagement with feminist cinema theories, particularly Laura Mulvey's
"Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema" and Rosalind Gill's
"Postfeminist Media Culture," provides a theoretical lens to
understand the movie's negotiation of feminist ideals and critiques. Mulvey's
concept of the male gaze invites scrutiny into how the film challenges or
subverts traditional visual dynamics, especially in Barbie's agency and
self-discovery within the matriarchal society. Gill's framework aids in
assessing the movie's alignment with postfeminist ideals, unravelling whether
it reinforces or subverts postfeminist discourse, particularly in Barbie's
journey of self-discovery and responses to societal challenges. These feminist
theories contribute to a more nuanced exploration of the film's engagement with
contemporary feminist discourses. Beyond feminist
perspectives, the movie delves into the portrayal of masculinity, challenging
traditional norms and fostering a reimagining of male identity. Nicholas
Balaises’ insights into Ken's character provide a lens to examine the emotional
complexities, identity crises, and economic challenges faced by men. Ken's
emotional journey and vulnerability disrupt traditional depictions of
masculinity in media, showcasing a male character who undergoes emotional
growth and self-awareness. Megan Garber and Eliana Dockterman
offer diverse interpretations of Ken's journey, with one seeing parallels with
adolescence and the other drawing connections to aspects of the men's rights
movement. These perspectives enrich discussions on the movie's themes,
including power dynamics and societal critique, sparking complex conversations
about gender roles and expectations. The portrayal of
male characters, particularly Ken, in the Barbie movie stands in stark contrast
to traditional depictions of masculinity in media. Ken's emotional journey
challenges stereotypes of emotional stoicism, highlighting emotional
development as a positive attribute for male characters. The film underscores
the importance of empathy, showcasing Ken's desire for emotional connection and
support. This challenges the prevailing notion of associating strength with
dominance and a lack of empathy in traditional masculinity portrayals. The
movie's emphasis on collective action and cooperation further challenges
individualistic notions associated with traditional masculinity, promoting a
more collaborative approach to problem-solving. Moreover, the Barbie movie
actively challenges and subverts gender stereotypes, contributing to a more
inclusive understanding of gender roles for its young audience. Ken's character,
portrayed as a beach enthusiast challenging traditional "masculine"
activities, dismantles the notion that interests and hobbies are inherently
gendered. The diverse career choices for Barbie and other female characters
break free from the stereotype that women should be limited to certain
professions, encouraging aspirations regardless of gender. The movie challenges
harmful stereotypes, depicting Ken's emotional journey as a rejection of
emotional stoicism and encouraging the expression of emotions in boys and men. The film's
positive models of relationships, emphasizing emotional expression and
vulnerability, dismantle toxic masculinity norms. The diverse cast, reflecting
various racial, ethnic, and body backgrounds, promotes inclusivity and
challenges traditional beauty standards. The movie extends its impact beyond
individual representation, emphasizing collective action and unity among
characters, transcending gender-based rivalry. These nuanced portrayals foster
empathy, understanding, and inclusivity among young audiences, challenging and
rejecting harmful stereotypes and norms associated with gender. In examining the
broader cultural impact of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour alongside the Barbie movie,
the interconnected narratives of femininity reclamation and empowerment gain
prominence. Acknowledging this parallel narrative invites scholars to explore
the collective influence of both cultural productions on reshaping societal
conversations around gender roles. The critical reception and audience
reactions underscore the growing demand for media that challenges conventional
gender norms and fosters inclusive and progressive notions of masculinity. The
film's release in a cultural context marked by discussions on gender equality
and movements like #MeToo positions it as a timely contribution to evolving
societal expectations regarding gender behaviours and interactions. 4. Unboxing New Masculinity In conclusion,
the 2023 Barbie movie stands as a transformative milestone in children's
entertainment, notably challenging and reshaping traditional gender norms,
particularly in its portrayal of masculinity. This cinematic endeavour
transcends the confines of earlier Barbie movies and animated features,
offering a nuanced exploration of male characters that defies conventional
stereotypes. By introducing male figures with emotional depth, vulnerability,
and a willingness to challenge societal expectations, the film reflects and
contributes to broader cultural shifts towards inclusivity and a revaluation of
traditional gender roles. Unlike its predecessors, the 2023 Barbie movie delves
into the complexities of masculinity, providing a refreshing departure from the
one-dimensional hero archetypes that often dominated earlier animated films.
Male characters in this movie are portrayed as multi-faceted individuals with
relatable struggles, fostering a more authentic and diverse representation of
masculinity. Ken's emotional journey becomes a central narrative arc,
demonstrating a departure from the simplistic portrayals of male characters in
previous Barbie movies and signalling a commitment to presenting a more
accurate reflection of the varied experiences of boys and men. The film's
progressive approach to gender representation aligns with broader cultural
trends that emphasize the limitations and harm associated with traditional
stereotypes of masculinity. In the 2023 Barbie movie, the evolving portrayal of
male characters reflects a growing recognition of the importance of emotional
intelligence, empathy, and vulnerability in shaping positive role models for
young viewers. This departure from the norm contributes to a richer narrative
that encourages audiences to embrace a wider range of emotions and behaviours,
fostering a more inclusive understanding of masculinity. Moreover, the positive
critical reception and subsequent discussions surrounding the 2023 Barbie movie
highlight its cultural impact and significance in shaping the discourse on
gender representation in children's media. The film's
success lies not only in its entertainment value but also in its ability to
prompt meaningful conversations about the importance of diverse and progressive
portrayals of masculinity in shaping the attitudes and beliefs of young
audiences. Beyond its thematic exploration of masculinity, the Barbie movie
serves as a thought-provoking subject for academic inquiry, navigating complex
intersections such as its alignment with 'woke' sensibilities, negotiation of
capitalist influences, the functionality of the musical genre, and the
differentiation between 'Barbie' as a product and 'Barbie' as a cinematic
endeavour. The film's conscious efforts to challenge traditional stereotypes
and contribute to a more accepting and progressive portrayal of masculinity
position it as a cultural artefact worthy of in-depth analysis and scholarly
consideration. In the ever-evolving landscape of children's entertainment, the 2023 Barbie movie emerges not only as a cinematic achievement but as a trailblazer in challenging established norms. It provides a lens through which to examine societal attitudes, cultural shifts, and the influential role of Hollywood in shaping mainstream cinema. As animated movies and children's media continue to evolve, this Barbie movie catalyses change, evaluating gender norms and encouraging the industry to embrace more inclusive and progressive representations of masculinity. Ultimately, the film stands as a pivotal work that not only entertains but also contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the power of media in shaping perceptions, fostering inclusivity, and shaping a more equitable future.
CONFLICT OF INTERESTS None. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS None. REFERENCES American Psychological Association. (2018). Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Boys and Men. Box-Office Mojo. (2023). 'Barbie'. IMDb.
Retrieved September 28, 2023. Rubin, R. (2023,
April 25). Greta Gerwig, Margot Robbie and Ryan
Gosling Bring Plastic, Fantastic The Numbers. (2023). 'Barbie'. Nash Information Services, LLC. Retrieved September 28, 2023.
Dear Editor, I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to provide a statement regarding the sources and references used in my research paper titled Unboxing New Masculinity: Analyzing Ken’s Evolution in Barbie '23, which I am submitting for consideration in your upcoming issue. In the course of conducting my research, I have reviewed relevant literature and sources. However, I would like to clarify that I have not directly quoted any lines or sentences from these references. Instead, I have drawn upon the insights and knowledge gained from these sources to inform and shape my analysis. Therefore, none of the reference materials in my article have been used verbatim, word for word, or as direct quotations. I acknowledge the valuable contribution of these authors in shaping the perspective presented in my article. Furthermore, I would like to confirm that this research has been conducted without the use of any book, article, or other publicly available sources as it is based on the recent movie Barbie. It is entirely an original work, and I have not referred to any external materials in the development of this research paper. I am prepared to provide a signed confirmation letter affirming the authenticity and originality of my research upon request. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you require any additional information or clarification. Thank you for considering my submission for publication in ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your esteemed journal. Sincerely, Javairia Nousheen Research Scholar, REVA University
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