How does Dole ‘read’ Legally Blonde as playing out some of the central themes and contradictions of third-wave or “girlie” feminism?

Gender Studies

Step 0: Watch Legally Blonde, then, read this excellent example of a film analysis: an article by Carol M. Dole called “The Return of Pink: Legally Blonde, third-wave feminism, and having it all.” (Provided below)

Step 1: Summarize the text

What is Dole’s central argument about third-wave feminism in this article? Sum it up in a paragraph. Then, tell me:

  • How does Dole ‘read’ Legally Blonde as playing out some of the central themes and contradictions of third-wave or “girlie” feminism?
  • What are some of the moments and/or scenes in the films Dole examines to make her case?

Step 2: Analyze the film

Then, conduct your own ‘reading’ of Legally Blonde: do you see this film as embodying feminist themes, or falling prey to misogynist stereotypes—or both? Why? Use specific moments and/or scenes to back up your interpretations.

Checklist:

– Make sure to follow all steps

– Accurately summarize Dole’s argument

– Adequately summarize Dole’s reading of Legally Blonde

– Mention specific moments/scenes in Dole’s reading

– Demonstrate a point of view (i.e., make own argument about the film)

– Back up viewpoint with evidence from the film