MEDIA REPRESENTATION AND CULTURAL APPROPRIATION IN R. F. KUANG’S YELLOWFACE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v5.i1.2024.3178Keywords:
Cultural Appropriation, Marginalized Narrative, Commodification, Representation Theory, Media RepresentationAbstract [English]
The reach and influence of media are major factors in the dissemination, reception and availability of information. Different media forms exist to cater to the diverse demands of the people—and these demands also hold true for art and culture. Media plays an essential role in shaping perceptions of art and culture, functioning as both a platform for expression and a custodian of narratives. Stuart Hall’s theory of representation emphasizes that media actively and consistently constructs meaning through dominant ideologies, often augmenting societal power imbalances. R.F. Kuang’s Yellowface illustrates how marginalized voices are commodified and modified for mainstream consumption, reflecting real-world experiences where minority cultures are sidelined for marketability. This paper uses Hall’s framework to examine how the publishing industry, as part of the media, distorts or erases authentic cultural expressions, highlighting the ethical implications and the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure meaningful and authentic representation of diverse voices.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. N. Banita Devi, Riangsuiliu R Panmei
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