Virtual Women Face Real Sexism

by Amy Zimmerman

In addition to the sexism that real women face everyday, it seems like virtual women have their fair share of misogyny to contend with. Anita Sarkeesian, creator of the awesome new Youtube project Tropes vs. Women in Video Games, has just released Damsel in Distress: Part 1. This video explores “how the Damsel in Distress became one of the most widely used gendered clichés in the history of gaming,” and applies a critical eye to a number of beloved games. From oversexed outfits to underdeveloped female characters, Sarkeesian points out all the ways the gaming world disserves women, and emphasizes the need for strong virtual women, the kind that don’t need any saving.

 

 

Additionally, according to Buzzfeed, cartoon women aren’t only damsels in distress: they’re also overwhelmingly underage. This picture, illustrating the respective ages of Disney Princesses, is sure to ick you out. Here’s hoping Aladdin was well versed in Age of Consent laws. 

 

Images Via Buzzfeed and Bits of Tropes vs. Women in Video Games

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