Honors Theses
Date of Award
2009
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
First Advisor
Ross Haenfler
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
This thesis provides a sociological examination of the personal experiences of beauty pageant participants in the South. By deconstructing the ideal view of women in beauty pageants, I attempted to answer how pageant contestants view their individual participation in the oppressive framework of the beauty pageant contest. In order to provide an in-depth analysis on the role of gender in beauty pageants, I conducted personal interviews and field study observations. Additionally, I researched current online sources and scholarly publications concerning gender and beauty pageants. The beauty pageant system demands that young women alter their bodies and personalities in order to achieve the ever-elusive feminine ideal. However, beauty pageant participants understand that this temporary transformation of self enables them to “use” the system for their own means. Although beauty pageants may appear to be a frivolous cultural event, this study reveals that the beauty pageant system is a powerful social structure worthy of greater understanding. Additionally, the personal narratives of pageant participants, judges and administrators help to reveal the complexities of the role of gender in the beauty pageant system and society as a whole.
Recommended Citation
Taylor, Lee, "Crowning Glory: A Sociological Study of Gender in the Beauty Pageant System" (2009). Honors Theses. 2265.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/2265
Accessibility Status
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