Unveiling Corporeal Feminism: Deconstructing Female Villain Archetypes in Maleficent

Abstract

The objective of this study is to critically analyze the 2014 film Maleficent from a corporeal feminist perspective, examining the interconnectedness of women's bodies, sexuality, and their portrayal as monsters. The research aims to unravel the construction of monstrous femininity monstrosity in Maleficent (2014), exploring its correlation with the main character, Maleficent who is branded as both hero and villain. It then challenges the binary categorization of good and evil by portraying Maleficent as Aurora's godmother. Even in her role as a mother and nurturer, Maleficent defies traditional patriarchal depictions of motherhood. The methodology involves a comprehensive analysis of the film, utilizing a corporeal feminist perspective. The researcher examines scenes and themes related to women's bodies, sexuality, and the juxtaposition of monstrosity and motherhood. A critical approach is employed to deconstruct traditional gender roles and portrayals within the narrative. Lastly, the paper discusses how presenting Maleficent as both a monster and a mother becomes an agentic representation, fostering empowerment and autonomy. Such research further paves way for analyses of cinematic representations consider alternative perspectives, challenging established gender norms.