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Marilyn Frye's View Of Sexism

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The musical Gypsy (1962) plays with many ideas concerning gender, individualism, and sex roles. These themes contribute to the question of whether or not Gypsy is sexist. For the purpose of this essay, sexism will be defined as any action that consciously contributes to a gender stereotyping society. In her essay, Marilyn Frye notes this definition of sexism stating that “making decisions on the basis of sex reinforces the patterns that make it relevant” (846). Therefore, any decision that contributes to the gender binary and its framework can be considered sexist. While the question of sexism is debated in the musical from both a sexist and non-sexist perspective, the storyline has occasions that can emphasize both of these views. These nuances …show more content…

Rose just received news that a spot for her children’s show became available and she needs to secure funds from her father to get her to the theater. She approaches her dad, and starts in song, stating “I’ve had a dream Pa” in a very poised tone, trying to convince him that what she is doing is right for her and her kids (19:40). Her Dad does not take the bait replying ‘’you aint(sic) getting eighty cents from me” to Roses comment “all I need is eighty-eight bucks” (23:18). Angered by her father’s response, Rose takes her dads prized railroad commemorative gift to sell off so that she can fund her journey. Rose is seen in opposing roles every other frame in this scene. When being individualistic and confident, Rose sings “[I] will be being booked in the in the bigtime” and looks upward, as if she could actually envision the goal she aspires to achieve (22:59). She stands with her shoulders back and projects her dream away from her father, to signal that she rejects the notions her dad’s suggestions to her regarding a husband. Rose is going on this journey, and she will be doing it for herself, her dignity, and her kids. Although she does mention June as a purpose for the trip, it is as an afterthought. This can be seen when she makes the statement “I had a dream… about June and The Orpheum Circuit” (22:25). This is the only time in the song that …show more content…

All of Roses actions, individualistic and stereotypical, culminate in the creation of a truly ironic character. Through a strong feminine role, Rose is able to achieve her dream of reaching the top of the theater industry. Rose does this through the subjection of her children to gender stereotypes. This stereotyping casts Rose in a sexist light but does not make the musical as a whole sexist. While it can be concluded that Gypsy is sexist due to the subjection of children to stereotypes and the audience response to how Rose plays the motherly role, this sexism is defeated by Roses triumph. Instead, through manipulating the sexist construal’s of society at the time, it is easier for Rose to achieve the goal that she wanted for herself. Rose uses her children and her father in an unsavory manor to achieve stardom. Rose succeeds (maybe not in her stereotypical motherly role) and ultimately does achieve this goal, showing how her strong feminine character used and manipulated sexism to defeat

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