The relationship between gendered language and gender identity in Disney’s Mulan (1998)

Anthony , Gabrielle Tavanya (2025) The relationship between gendered language and gender identity in Disney’s Mulan (1998). Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

This study explores the relationship between gendered language and gender identity in the Disney film Mulan (1998) using a qualitative discourse analysis method. By applying the gendered language and gender performativity frameworks by Mary Crawford and Judith Butler on the data collected through Robin Lakoff and James Pennebaker and Matthew Mehl’s theorised gendered language features, this research identified the use of gendered language in the movie’s dialogue. This study analysed how media portrayals affect the formation of gender identity and how such language both supports and contradicts conventional gender norms and stereotypes. The data of this study revealed four main findings. First, gender is not innate but constructed. Second, language can be used to shape and construct gender identity. Third, while Mulan (1998) reinforced and reproduced certain societal and gender norms, it simultaneously resisted gender stereotypes to reveal the complex nature of gender and gender performance. Another conclusion that can be drawn is that language can be used to reflect and construct gender identity. Fifth, an audience’s understanding and perception of gender and gender identity can be shaped and constructed by the representation of gendered language in the media. These findings support Mary Crawford and Judith Butler’s theories on gender and language while encouraging Disney audiences to question and resist the stereotypes and norms set on men and women.

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