Joseph Russo

REPRESENTATION THEORY IN “THE BABADOOK”

RICHARD DYER

• “Representations are reinforced by rigid stereotypes.”

• In “The Babadook”, the main character is a single mum, and she is shown to incapable to take care of her child as he is not disciplined throughout the film so this shows signs of her being weak and incapable.

• This a stereotype used in many films and shows a very negative stereotype. The film reinforces it rather than going against it.

FERDINAND DE SAUSSURE

• “Representations are created by signs which signify meaning.”

• The female character is shown as weak and unable to look after or protect her child. The sign in this film could be the Babadook itself, as it could represent her depression or grief about the death of her husband. It has made her incapable and has put her and her child in even more danger than they already are.

• This theory backs up what the film represent in terms of having signs and signifiers to create meaning.