Female Representation in the New Series of Doctor Who

Abstract

Doctor Who (1963-89, 2005-present) is a British sci-fi sensation. During it’s more than fifty-year run it certainly had problematic issues that raised criticism among fan communities and cultural commentators as well. One of the main issues regarding the series is the representation of female characters. This thesis examines the show from a gender-centric point of view, focusing on the problematic representation of female characters. The argument, that the show got more sexist as it moved forward with a new show-runner, is based on the analysis of the female characters, called ‘companions’. The analysis is largely based on the companions’ traits, character development and whether they have any agency beside their stereotypical gender roles.