https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/16/sunday-review/angela-merkel-feminist-germany.html?mcubz=3
An intriguing NY times article on Angela Merkel released today. It documents Merkel's general reluctance to describe herself as a feminist, and relates to some of our earlier conversations on how female politicians present themselves in the public sphere. Whether for political reasons or for not, Merkel appears to maintain a "gender neutral image" that doesn't necessarily subscribe to traditional ideals of femininity. The article also includes Merkel's own reflections on femininity and politics, such as how she responds to commentary on her wardrobe.
It's an interesting read, especially in light of the fact that Merkel might be more progressive than some American female politicians - though I think her political party is socially conservative in some way.
Hunter,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this article! I really enjoyed learning more about Merkel's unique point of view as a woman leader in politics. I found it particularly interesting that the article mentions she and her husband do not have any children. This made me think of a discussion we had one class about how women without children were more likely to be viewed as motherly figures, because they were innately not seen as neglecting their actual children by being child-less. Merkel is described as "the least motherly person you can imagine" and the references to her as Mommy by her party were initially meant to insult her and then transformed to include a public image of trust. I find this use of language with various meanings to truly represent how one's perspective can completely change how a title, like Mommy, is interpreted. It can take power from a woman or give her power depending on the audience. This relates to many figures we have discussed in class.
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ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting article! It's so sad to see the how feminine qualities are associated with weakness in the political sphere. Maybe that means a women's path to political success is being completely gender neutral at the moment. I only hope that one day what separates us as women can be valued as strengths in politics. I hope I get to see that day come!
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