Reimagining Feminism in Beauty and the Beast: A Critical Analysis of Gender Roles and Power Dynamics

This research examines Vera Southgate “Beauty and The Beast” through the lenses of Feminist literary criticism. Focusing on how the story adresses traditional gender roles and transformation. Using Simone de Beauvoir to explore the role of women in society. As a result: 1) The narrative suppresses conventional evaluations by shifting focus from physical appearance to inner virtue and emotional transformation. Beast’s appearance does not fit societal expectations. It makes society, Beauty, does not accept the Beast by his physical appearance. 2) Traditional gender roles are actively imposed, marginalizing female agency and reinforcing patriarchal norms. The traditional gender roles between women and men in society are shown in this literature, where men are more dominant and providers while women are caretakers and submissive. 3) The interrelationship of power between characters illustrates a dialectical relationship in which dependence and autonomy are continuously renegotiated. True love is not based on physical appearance, but it is from the kindness from the heart. It can make a big transformation when someone finds their true love. This analysis is significant for its contribution to feminist literary criticism, as it illustrates the dual capacity of literature to both reinforce and challenge societal structures. It is expected that these insights will stimulate further research into the transformative potential of narrative in reshaping gender identities and power relations

Interfaith Dialogue and Unity in Diversity: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Pope Francis’s Speeches (2024) in Jakarta

This study employed Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), a qualitative method to examine Pope Francis’s (2024) speeches in Jakarta, integrating ​Teun van Dijk’s socio-cognitive framework​ (2006) and ​Ruth Wodak’s discourse, historical approach (2001). As the result, the findings emerge: 1) The Pope’s rhetorical strategies; such as, ​inclusive pronouns​ (e.g., “we”) and ​metaphors​ like “bridges of dialogue”, construct collective identity and align with Indonesia’s national motto "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" (Unity in Diversity), framing interfaith harmony as a moral imperative. 2) The speeches depict power dynamics by positioning the Church as a “servant of the common good,””compassion,” “mercy,” and “inclusivity” which aligns with the Islamic principles (e.g., rahmatan lil ‘alamin), legitimizing the alignment to state policies while subtly outlining systemic inequities, in line with van Dijk’s concept of symbolic power. 3) The discourse reconciles historical tensions by referencing Indonesia’s conflict struggles and avoiding contentious terms like “conversion,” reflecting Wodak’s emphasis on the role of historical context in shaping communication. The Pope’s rhetoric strategically engages Indonesia’s past events and present-day religious policies to foster reconciliation and legitimize the Church’s role in a pluralist society. Through textual analysis, contextual triangulation with policy documents, and ethical rigor, the study draws attention to the Pope’s strategic balance of affirming state-endorsed pluralism while advocating for grassroots justice, demonstrating CDA’s efficacy in decoding religious diplomacy in diverse societies

Reclaiming Agency: Subverting Patriarchy and Reconfiguring Gender in Enola Holmes (2020)

In the 21st century, feminism continues to grapple with persistent challenges, including gender pay gaps, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and ongoing debates over reproductive rights that echo historical struggles for equality. Drawing connections to feminist protests during the Victorian era. Using a qualitative method, this study employed feminist theory, particularly the works of Judith Butler (1990), Betty Friedan (1963), and Charlotte Brontë (1847) to analyze the 2020 film Enola Holmes. The film is examined as a cultural text that subverts patriarchal norms and offers a narrative of female empowerment by: 1) presenting characters, such as Enola and her mother, Eudoria, who reject conventional feminine behavior in favor of self-defense, independence, and intellectual curiosity;    2) critiquing institutional constraints through the depiction of rigid gender stereotypes enforced by settings like the finishing school; and 3) illustrating how Enola’s defiance of familial and societal expectations empowers her to reclaim agency and reshape her future. This article contributes to ongoing academic discourse on gender representation in media by demonstrating how modern adaptations of historical settings can illuminate contemporary feminist issues and challenge established societal norms regarding gender equality

Stoicism and its Influence in the Culture of New Testament Theology & Paul\u27s Writings

This paper examines the interplay between Stoic philosophy and early New Testament theology, with a particular focus on Pauline writings. It explores how core Stoic concepts—such as logos, virtue, and natural law—were strategically adapted by early Christian thinkers to communicate the gospel within a Hellenistic intellectual framework. The discussion reveals three key points of theological tension: 1) Resurrection versus Immortality of the Soul: Whereas Stoicism posits that the soul merely returns to the universal order, Christian doctrine asserts the resurrection of the body and the promise of eternal, transformed identity (Engberg-Pedersen, 2020; Ferguson, 2021). 2) Personal God versus Pantheistic Logos: The Stoic view of an impersonal, all-pervading logos contrasts sharply with the Christian emphasis on a personal, relational God who actively engages with creation (Arnold, 1971; Wilson, 2023). 3) Grace versus Self-Sufficiency: Although Stoic ethics valorize self-sufficiency achieved through reason and discipline, Paul redefines these ideals by grounding moral strength in divine grace, thereby highlighting human dependence on Christ (Malherbe, 2022). This research shows how early Christian theology both borrowed from and diverged from prevailing philosophical traditions, thus laying the groundwork for a distinctive doctrinal identity. This synthesis not only facilitated the spread of Christianity among a philosophically sophisticated audience but also continues to offer a rich framework for contemporary theological dialogue and interfaith engagement. It is expected that further exploration of this convergence will deepen our understanding of the dynamic relationship between secular philosophy and religious thought, with implications for modern ethical discourse and apologetics

Between Freedom and Captivity: A Dual Analysis of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl through Freudian Psychoanalysis and Postcolonial Criticism

This paper critically examines Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl through the dual lenses of Freudian psychoanalytic theory and postcolonial criticism, revealing that the narrative articulates complex thematic oppositions through a multifaceted analysis. The study yields three key results: 1) Freudian constructs such as the ‘id,’ ‘ego,’ and ‘superego’ exemplify the internal conflicts of characters, emphasizing the dynamic tension between instinctual desires and moral control; 2) a clear binary opposition is established between the pursuit of freedom, embodied by characters like Captain Jack Sparrow, and the state of entrapment, exemplified by the cursed crew whose internalized guilt and consequences of greed bind them; and 3) the integration of psychoanalytic and postcolonial perspectives provides interdisciplinary insights, demonstrating how historical power dynamics and personal identity conflicts converge in cinematic storytelling. The significance of these findings lies in their potential to refine methodologies in literary and film criticism by offering a nuanced understanding of narrative complexity and cultural dynamics. Consequently, further research is expected to extend this dual-framework approach to a broader range of films and narrative forms, thereby enriching scholarly debates on themes of freedom, power, and identity within contemporary popular culture

Postcolonial Ecocriticism in Avatar: The Way of Water: Unveiling Environmental and Cultural Struggles

This study investigates the postcolonial ecocritical dimensions of James Cameron’s Avatar: The Way of Water (2022), focusing on the tension between the Na’vi (colonized) and the Resources Development Administration (RDA) (colonizer). Drawing on Nixon’s (2011) concept of slow violence and Ashcroft, Griffiths, and Tiffin’s (2002) analysis of imperial dominance, using a qualitative method, the study explores how the film portrays cultural erasure, environmental harm, and resilience. The Na’vi exemplify spiritual connection and ecological respect, while the RDA’s militarized extractive practices reflect unchecked capitalist exploitation. Through a synthesis of film analysis and theoretical insights, this article reveals the broader implications of postcolonial ecocriticism for understanding cultural survival and environmental justice. As the results: 1) The Na’vi endure cultural erasure and ecological harm yet demonstrate resilience through a deep spiritual bond with their environment. 2) The RDA embodies destructive imperialism, deploying militarized technology to extract resources without regard for cultural or ecological welfare. 3) The film’s portrayal of conflict fosters critical reflection on postcolonial ecocriticism, underscoring the need to address the interlinked crises of environmental exploitation and cultural marginalization. By examining Avatar: The Way of Water through a postcolonial ecocritical lens, this study highlights the urgency of integrating cultural and environmental advocacy. It is anticipated that these findings will encourage further scholarly discourse on how literary and cinematic narratives can galvanize both academic and public engagement in dismantling exploitative power structures and championing ecological stewardship

Beyond Vibranium: Revealing Power Dynamics in Black Panther: ‘Wakanda Forever’ Movie (2022)

This study aims to show how power operates through knowledge and control, which plays out in the movie "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)," for its precious source, vibranium. Employing the analytical framework by Foucault\u27s theory of Power: Discipline and Punish: The Birth of the Prison (1977). The analysis unveils a perspective towards ‘isolation vs global responsibility’ exploring deeply into the details of the movie. The visual effects and the cameraworks of the cinematography and the selected utterances were also conveyed along with the analysis of the movie. As a result: 1) The movie depicts Wakanda\u27s view of vibranium as a global responsibility, aligning with Foucault\u27s idea of power permeating the entire social body. 2) Wakanda\u27s efforts to protect vibranium triggers the exercise of sovereign power, reflecting the centralized control over valuable resources. 3) The tension between ‘isolation’ and ‘global responsibility’, with Queen Ramonda resulting in refusal to trade vibranium due to its dangers and ethical concerns about sharing advanced technology for power abuse. The power dynamics in Wakanda help shape the identity and decision-making. The analysis of the issue of power dynamics of isolation, global responsibility in the movie leads to the insight and understanding about the ethics of sharing technology that provide rich material for a better good

Redefining Feminine Strength and Vulnerability: A Gender Performative Analysis of Wonder Woman 1984 (2020) Movie

This study investigates the critical issue in Wonder Woman (1984) in feminist perspective, by using Judith Butler’s (1990) theory of gender performativity. The movie explores the interconnectedness of feminine strength and vulnerability, traditional gender roles, and the theme of power and agency. Diana Prince’s journey reflects the societal pressure on women to embody both strength and emotional complexity, while Barbara Minerva’s transformation into Cheetah represents the internalization of masculine ideals of power. As the results: 1) The movie demonstrates that feminine strength and vulnerability can coexist, subverting the notion that power must align solely with masculine ideals. 2) Wonder Woman (1984) critiques traditional gender roles by showing how women’s autonomy is often constrained by societal expectations, particularly in relationships and social responsibilities. 3) The movie reveals a significant difference in how power and agency are explored between male and female characters, with male characters like Max Lord wielding unchecked power, while female characters must navigate moral and societal limitations. Through Butler’s framework, Wonder Woman 1984 critiques traditional gender norms, suggesting that true empowerment comes from redefining power and success beyond patriarchal structures. This article is expected to enhance feminist discourse in movie analysis by offering a more profound insight into how media portrayals of women both challenge and uphold societal standards. Hence, it enhances critical conversations around gender, power, and identity, encouraging further exploration of how movies can influence and reflect progressing perspectives on gender equality

Deconstructing Power Relation in An Illustrated Children’s Storybook How Turtle Got His Shell, Why Tiger Can’t Climb Trees

This paper investigates the power relations present in the children\u27s narrative "How Turtle Got His Shell, Why Tigers Can\u27t Climb Trees" through the framework of Michel Foucault\u27s concepts regarding power, discipline, and resistance. The research utilized a qualitative approach, encompassing meticulous textual analysis and content examination, to discern and evaluate occurrences of power-related issues portrayed within the tale. Additionally, the illustrative components pertinent to these critical themes were subjected to scrutiny. By categorizing elements of power and resistance in a binary framework, the study affords a nuanced comprehension of the interplay between these factors within the narrative. The findings reveal: 1) Both narratives exemplify the manner in which power is manifested through hierarchical systems and regulatory practices, while simultaneously highlighting the intrinsic resistance that emerges within these power structures. 2) The selective distribution of knowledge in "How Turtle Got His Shell, Why Tiger Can’t Climb Trees" exemplifies Foucault\u27s assertion that knowledge is intertwined with power, whereby those in positions of authority utilize it to uphold control alongside resistance. 3) The narratives reflect the dynamics of power relations in multicultural contexts, where dominant and subordinate groups interact, often leading to both subtle and overt forms of resistance. The findings emphasize the importance of critical engagement with children\u27s stories to understand power dynamics and their impact on young readers. This illustrated children’s storybook serves as a poignant example of how children\u27s literature can reflect real-life power struggles and societal issues. This research highlights the need for literature that nurtures a child\u27s development and fosters a healthy sense of responsibility and respect within their communities

Decolonizing Character Representation: A Postcolonial Analysis of Race-Swapping in Disney’s The Little Mermaid Movie (2023)

This article investigates the implications of race-swapping character representation in the 2023 live-action adaptation of Disney\u27s "The Little Mermaid," focusing on the casting of Halle Bailey, a Black actress, as Ariel. Utilizing postcolonial criticism frameworks, particularly Robert J.C. Young\u27s theories, this study explores the historical and cultural significance of this casting decision. The findings suggest that the movie\u27s approach to race-swapping serves as a means to challenge and redefine traditional racial narratives within popular media. The research identifies three primary outcomes: 1) Reimagining racial roles is exemplified in the movie by the casting of a Black actress in a traditionally white role disrupts conventional racial representations, prompting viewers to reconsider the historical association of race with specific characters and roles. 2) The race-swapping encourages viewers a re-evaluation of historical narratives in the story, deepening the audience\u27s understanding and allowing for a more inclusive perspective of the past of different racial groups. 3) Upon promoting racial inclusivity and diversity, the movie strives to prioritize the significance of acknowledging the historical experiences of the marginalized societies in an effort not to be forgotten or eliminated. The movie approach leads to dual perspectives and biases: promoting inclusivity while also at the same time reimagining historical issues related to race. Consequently, this study highlights the importance of critically engaging with media representations to foster a more inclusive and representative cultural landscape by examining its historical biases. The movie\u27s innovative approach to character representation encourages the need for ongoing dialogue about the intersections of race, history, and societal roles in contemporary media​