Marge Simpson, Blue-Haired Housewife: Defining Domesticity on The Simpsons

In this article, the topic is concerning more than one aspect. The author argues that The Simpsons satirizes the mythology of sitcom families and that Marge Simpson’s character reveals the fictionality of the televised housewife, that is, she demonstrates that the domesticity embodied by TV housewives is unrealistic, fantastic, and cannot be reproduced by human beings.

There are plenty of key terms. At first, I want to discuss “domestic gender roles”. In the nuclear family, a female is in charge of the family thins, such as taking care of children. She is a homeworker. Females have less opportunities to contact with the public things. As a male, what he just do is to support his family, such as earning money. To some extent, division of labor depends on gender. Secondly, I will talk about “the basic elements of American Dream”. Freedom is an important issue in American Dream. However, in the Simpsons its originator satirized American Dream. He portrayed schools, families, and workplaces as prisons of the mind and soul. This point lets us reflect how the real society is far away from the American Dream. Thirdly, I want to discuss “affirmation of traditional value on The Simpsons”. The Simpsons family is a solid nuclear family. Children express their affection for and loyalty to their parents. Marge and Homer raise children well and right, although children are a little naughty. Marge and Homer love each other. Last key term I will discuss is “gravelly voice”. Marge’s voice is scratchy and rough. It is not like other housewives whose voice is sweet and gentle. But Marge’s voice makes her distinctive and special. She use her unique voice to protect her family and put forward unfair things.

The author uses The Simpsons to satirize sitcom families and makes Marge for an example to reveal the fictionality of the televised housewife. Firstly, The Simpsons satirize the idealized family sitcoms of the past. The past family sitcoms were placid, well-ordered. It’s different Simpsons family. Then author uses Homer’s character to deride men in middle-class families. Author also argues on sentiment and traditional value of The Simpsons. Later, author reveals that televised housewives are fictional by analyzing Marge’ appearance and behaviors.

In this article, there are many examples to prove author’s opinion. Author satirized the basic elements of American Dream. Author wrote teacher stifled students’ creativity and court officers were corrupt, shiftless. And author wrote Marge’s blur hair was changeless and could grow back instantly to demonstrate that Marge was not real, just a cartoon character. And there are more interesting examples.