It's (Not) Only a Joke: The Changing Face of Sexist Humor in M*A*S*H
Date
2021
Authors
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Publisher
Keyhole Press
Abstract
Sexist humor in TV series enables sexist behaviors, minimizes its
inappropriateness and negative effects, and contributes to misogyny existing
in society. Audiences consuming television media are exposed to such consequences.
Visual media has a massive impact on its viewers; therefore, it must
reflect progressive and non-discriminatory values. Creators and producers
bear a responsibility in enabling positive change and conversation about sexist
humor and behaviors by producing media that eradicates such practices.
TV series M*A*S*H (1972-1983) offers a framework for progressive humor.
It relied heavily on sexist humor in its earlier seasons for much of the series
comedy, featuring humor based on behaviors such as female objectification,
misogyny in the workplace, and female characters created through warped
sexist stereotypes. However, influenced by growing social change, M*A*S*H
was successful in reworking its harmful humor into a productive one. The
sexism within the show is transformed to illustrate the absurdity of such
behaviors and female characters become more than props for comedic relief,
thus allowing for reflection and productive conversation.
Description
Recommended Citation: BlÅ«ma, Alise. âIt's (Not) Only a Joke: The Changing Face of Sexist Humor in M*A*S*H.â Royal Road, 2021. https://doi.org/10.48497/8A61-3810.
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Keywords
M*A*S*H, Sexist humor, Sitcoms
Citation
BlÅ«ma, Alise. âIt's (Not) Only a Joke: The Changing Face of Sexist Humor in M*A*S*H.â Royal Road, 2021. https://doi.org/10.48497/8A61-3810.