Leiden University Student Repository

Evegaars, Myra (2025)

Cross-dressing Shōjos: Gender Performativity and Queer Relationships in 'The Rose of Versailles' and 'Revolutionary Girl Utena'

Bachelor thesis | Japanstudies (BA)

This thesis examines the portrayal of gender performativity and queer relationships in the shōjo anime The Rose of Versailles (1979-1980) and Revolutionary Girl Utena (1997), focusing on the shows’ cross-dressing female protagonists: Oscar François de Jarjayes and Utena Tenjō. Using Judith Butler’s theory of gender performativity, this thesis analyses both the visual and narrative aspects of both shows to explore how gender performativity and queer romantic relationships are portrayed. Through an analysis of the protagonists’ gender performances in their dress wear and their primary romantic relationships, this thesis demonstrates that The Rose of Versailles’ portrayal of gender and romance is rooted in traditional notions of gender roles and heteronormativity. In contrast, Revolutionary Girl Utena actively challenges such notions by celebrating queerness and depicting it as a revolutionizing force. This comparative analysis demonstrates the continuing influence of these two shōjo...Show moreThis thesis examines the portrayal of gender performativity and queer relationships in the shōjo anime The Rose of Versailles (1979-1980) and Revolutionary Girl Utena (1997), focusing on the shows’ cross-dressing female protagonists: Oscar François de Jarjayes and Utena Tenjō. Using Judith Butler’s theory of gender performativity, this thesis analyses both the visual and narrative aspects of both shows to explore how gender performativity and queer romantic relationships are portrayed. Through an analysis of the protagonists’ gender performances in their dress wear and their primary romantic relationships, this thesis demonstrates that The Rose of Versailles’ portrayal of gender and romance is rooted in traditional notions of gender roles and heteronormativity. In contrast, Revolutionary Girl Utena actively challenges such notions by celebrating queerness and depicting it as a revolutionizing force. This comparative analysis demonstrates the continuing influence of these two shōjo works and highlights the continuing need for contemporary shows that challenge traditional gender norms and heteronormative expectations.Show less

Gender Performativity, Anime, The Rose of Versailles, Revolutionary Girl Utena, Film Studies, Gender Studies, Queer representation

Author

Evegaars, Myra

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Supervisors

Crandol, M. E.

ECTS Credits

10

Language

en