The Bernie Mac Show Analysis

1. According to the text, self-presentation is something that we act out in response to the expectations of others. It is how one chooses to present themselves to an audience. Self- presentation is the cardinal decision that one chooses to make. For example, women may not generally come out and say their opinions or express their views on certain matters in the public eye due to its displeasing nature. Men, however, can voice their opinions on whatever subject and whenever they deem fit (Crawford, 2012). In the episode of, “The Bernie Mac Show,” Jordan and Briana are the main characters of this episode and throughout the show they display certain behaviors which many would call self-presentation. As we see in the episode Jordan wasn’t good …show more content…
Gender is not just the color your eyes or how you choose to wear your hair it’s something that people chose to portray (Crawford,2012). In a typical traditional household, gender is a man being masculine and woman being feminine. The text states that “doing gender” requires a man to be as much of a woman as he is a man and the same applies to women. In the video, although it is not the most conventional Jordan and Briana both displayed “doing gender”. In this episode, Brianna was the aggressor and being aggressive is perceived as a male characteristic. Masculinity emphasizes assertiveness and the liking of sports. Furthermore, throughout the episode Jordan’s character is shown to be sensitive. When he heard his uncle insult him he quit gymnastics altogether. Many would consider being sensitive and rhythmic gymnastics a feminine characteristic. Overtime if Briana and Jordan continue this behavior many of their peers might refer to them as “gay,” “homos” and “fags”. Briana might be mistaken for one of the guys and none of the guys would want to hang out with …show more content…
Research states that women sports are not displayed as often as men. Society views men as the dominant sex, so women don’t often get the praise they deserve when it comes to their abilities to perform. Whenever a female athlete is great at her craft, they consider it was masculine. That is exactly what took place in this episode of Bernie Mac Show. Brianna was great at soccer and to get any type of recognition she had to boast. Bernie knew she was excelling and instead of giving her the credit she deserved he paid her no attention. Strangely enough, when Bernie witnessed Brianna behavior, he became concerned. “That’s no way for baby girl to act,” he says. Implying that females shouldn’t carry themselves that way. But if Jordan were to act in such a manner it would be ok no one would see anything wrong with his behavior. What would be applicable in Jordan’s case is that he isn’t acting like Bernie wants him to. Briana is displaying all the qualities that Bernie which Jordan