Josie Andrews 412 Midterm Projects Main Menu Introduction The Ideological Function of Stars: Contradictions and Promises of Individualism. Prompt Analysis Little Women (George Cukor 1933) Tomboyism: Negotiating and Celebrating a Strong, Sprited Woman in the Great Depression Sylvia Scarlett (George Cukor, 1936) "Woman of the Year" (George Stevens, 1942) Conclusion Bibliography CATCH ME IF YOU CAN The Contradictions and Promises of Individualism in the Films of Katharine Hepburn 1933-1942

Balancing the Contradictions in Jo's Character

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As we can see in this Photo, Jo is physically strong, much stronger than most women.  She easily carries Beth down the stairs. At the same time, balancing the contradictions and societal expectations of desired femininity, Jo is not too strong.  She weeps when Beth is ill and dying. And, she weeps when Aunt March takes Amy to Europe instead of her.

This balancing of clashing gender imagery is important to manage Hepburn's star image so that she remains appealing. This "managing" of the contradictory images was also evident in early scenes in the Film.  Jo is feisty--throwing snowballs and engaging in sword fights. But not too feisty that she become targeted as controlling or "bitchy."  Instead, Hepburn's Jo is always forthright but apologetic and contrite to her mother and those she cares about.

Jo is also independent (moving alone to New York) but not so independent that she wants to spend her life without a traditional heterosexual marriage and family.


This balance was very important during the Great Depression because women had to be strong for their family.

 

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