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Feminism in the Hunger Games

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Abstract: This essay focuses on the feminist criticism and the gender roles in key characters of The Hunger Games trilogy. It evaluates the purpose of Suzanne Collins' use of breaking down gender roles and how that shapes the character outside that character's own gender. Themes of survival and humanity are explored and evaluated, putting a specific emphasis on how those themes correspond with gender roles. Both females and males are examined; first in the Hunger Games universe, and then applied to the twenty first century stereotypes of gender roles. All the novels in the trilogy— The Hunger Games (2008), Catching Fire (2009), and Mockingjay (2010)— as well as a criticism from Kristi Tyson, author of Modern Literary Theory of Sexes (2011). The essay explores the question of whether gender is a determining factor of what makes a strong character. Through the research and analysis of the pieces, the essay resolves that Collins actually by-passes gender roles, focusing more on a character's ability to adapt to both gender stereotypes in order to have a well rounded understanding of society. Genders are not the determining factor of a strong character, because gender roles do not matter in the long run of being a human being in general.

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On September 14, 2008, Suzanne Collins published her novel, The Hunger Games. The twisted story line of a barbaric showdown was an instant hit. Katniss Everdeen, the main protagonist of the series, became an idol— girls thought she was a new symbol of independence, and guys loved the lack of romance and emphasis on gore. The novel centers around Katniss in the futuristic society of Panem, which is dictated by the Capitol. After a rebellion arose against the Capitol, the Hunger Games was formed as a reminder to the people of Panem of the rule the Capitol has over their lives. One boy and one girl from each

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