Rushton Journal of Undergraduate Humanities Research
Abstract
This research paper examines the role of gender in the franchise Star Wars. With the first installment of the trilogy released in 1977, many expected this film would turn out like many before. However, the world that George Lucas created was an instant hit and continues to be today. This paper focuses on how the franchise was set apart from other science fiction films based on a defiance of typical gender roles that were prevalent in the late twentieth century, specifically focusing on the two leading roles, Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa, and employing analysis of the films, cast interviews, promotional posters, and several secondary sources.
Recommended Citation
Ulmer, Melissa
(2025)
"Star Wars and Gender in 1980s America,"
Rushton Journal of Undergraduate Humanities Research: Vol. 3, Article 3.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/rushton/vol3/iss1/3
