Text in Context

Primary Source = True Blood's "Strange Love"
Secondary = Buffy the Vampire Slayer's "Chosen"

Intro:
If one looks back upon old supernaturally based films, one can see a common pattern in regards to female characterization. Not only were they viewed as the weaker of characters, but also they often were the victims that fell prey to hideous creatures, for example vampires. A note about these genres is how they often reflected upon society. As a society changes, the way themes are presented changes. It is natural that in a modern era where women have become powerful and independent for films and television shows to showcase such ideas. What is unusual in such cases is the slight tendency to revisit the typical characterizations. A prime example of this is the modern television show True Blood. In this show, a telepathic waitress falls for a vampire in a time when these creatures have become larger components of society. Another example can be seen with the television show Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Even though women are physically reversing the classic damsel in distress scenario by promoting independence, their weakness of being ruled by human emotions and reliance on men connects them to stereotypical female portrayals.
Body:
1.
Topic - Rather than the men saving the women, it is shown that women can be the ones strong enough to fight
Support  - TB: Sookie saves Bill. BtVS: Buffy saves Angel.


2.
Topic - The women have shown to be independent when it comes to struggles in life.
Support - TB: Tara's confrontation at work.


3.
Topic - Still being of human quality, the women base their decisions on what they desire in their hearts, potentially clouding judgement.
Support - TB: Sookie's interest in Bill because he's unaffected by her power. BtVS: Buffy wanting to stay with Spike as the town is collapsing.


4.
Topic - Although they are presented as strong individuals, the women still rely on the men in their lives for support.
Support - TB: Sam is the one that provides for the women in his life. BtVS: Spike is the one that ultimately ends the "war"