Bechdel Test

Bechdel Test

I chose to watch an episode from Grey’s Anatomy and I will discuss the female representation and the idea of gender bias in regards to the Bechdel Test.  Three main criteria are considered when determining if a movie or television show passes the test.  Passing the Bechdel test requires that there are at least two women characters, the women characters must talk to each other, and they must talk about something other than a man. 

On Grey’s Anatomy, there are several main characters that are women, they all talk to each other, and they discuss things other than men.  The specific episode that I watched, which was episode five of season nine, as well as the television show as a whole, pass the Bechdel Test.  Even though it passes the test, the show can still be analyzed in relation to concepts such as gender and stereotypes.  Meredith and Yang, two main female characters, are best friends and talk to each other about a wide variety of topics.  The two characters do engage in conversation about men very often.  Although they perform surgeries together and consult each other concerning treatment plans for patients, a significant amount of their conversations and their time together is spend talking about a man, or multiple male characters. 

Thinking about the Bechdel Test is relevant to conversations about gender in the media because it tests the representation and significance of female characters.  The test suggests that female characters are under represented and that if they are present and are given speaking roles, that their concerns should only be heard if they are regarding a man.  The television show Grey’s Anatomy seems to reinforce some stereotypes, while tearing down and questioning other stereotypes that are expressed throughout media sources.  For example, the media in general seems to sell the idea that men are successful and power figures within the home and workplace.  Women, in contrast, are expected to be appealing to the eye, domestic, and able to multi-task.  Within this media, females are often talking about men, concerned with how they are perceived by men, and are willing to be submissive to them by being on their time and schedule.  But, the males also often talk about female characters and about their feelings toward them.  Sometimes the male characters present with authoritative personality traits and raise their voice toward females.  This often occurs in the operating room, but it occurs in some relationships outside of the hospital as well. 

A common stereotype that can be witnessed both on television and throughout day-to-day life is the variation in how an authoritative male is perceived in contrast to a female who is in a position of power.  If a man holds a high-ranking position within his work place, he is often described as being motivated, proficient, and successful.  Oppositely, women who hold authority within their workplace are often described negatively.  Women of power are often described as being bossy, feisty, and pushy.  This is depicted in Grey’s Anatomy through Dr. Bailey, the Chief Resident.  She is collectively referred to as the “Nazi” due to her high expectations and unwavering demands.  The Chief of Surgery, who is a male surgeon, demonstrates the same strict demeanor and projects orders without negotiation.  Although Chief Hunt (male) and Dr. Bailey (female) share similar authoritative personalities and both demonstrate high expectations, Chief Hunt is never called a “Nazi” or downgraded due to his constant expectations.  The same characteristics and traits cause the female doctor to be ridiculed, while the male doctor continues to gain respect from peers and colleagues within the hospital.   

In contrast to many perceptions that are portrayed in other television shows and movies, Grey’s Anatomy has almost an even balance of male and female characters.  Surprisingly, female characters hold high-ranking positions within the hospital and have authority in many situations.  The board members of the hospital are composed of both male and female characters, and both seem to have adequate talk time and all are able to voice their opinions and concerns.  It is significant to note that the show itself was named after a woman surgeon, Ellis Grey, and her legacy was passed down to her daughter, Meredith Grey.  This explains how some common stereotypes are questioned and torn down within this media source. 

The television show Grey’s Anatomy passes the Bechdel test and it both supports and questions common stereotypes and ideas concerning gender.  It is interesting to discuss how one media source can send multiple signals both directly and indirectly to its viewers.  Engaging in discussions in class about these topics has helped to open my eyes and forced me to pay attention to the many signals that can be interpreted through social media and readily available media sources.  I have enjoyed learning about and becoming aware of common stereotypes and how they are portrayed through everyday media sources. 

References

Rhimes, S. (Writer), & Cragg, S. (Director). (2005- ). Beautiful doom [Television series

episode]. Grey’s Anatomy. USA: American Broadcasting Company.