The Adorkable Misogyny of The Big Bang Theory

Summary

This video essay critically examines the 'Adorkable Misogynist' trope as seen in popular media, particularly through the lens of *The Big Bang Theory*. The characters, while presented as nerdy and endearing, engage in sexist and problematic behaviors that are often excused due to their awkwardness. The essay traces the origins of the trope back to 1980s films like *Revenge of the Nerds*, highlighting how geeky masculinity is framed as both comical and harmless, despite its harmful impact. Through analysis, the video calls for a shift away from this outdated portrayal and toward more nuanced, respectful depictions of geek culture.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 'adorkable misogynist' trope features geeky male characters who engage in sexist behaviors, but these actions are portrayed as harmless and endearing due to their socially awkward personalities.
• 😀 This trope became popular through shows like *The Big Bang Theory*, which depicts nerdy, socially awkward men who are excused for creepy and entitled behavior because they don't conform to traditional masculine ideals.
• 😀 The origins of the 'adorkable misogynist' trope can be traced back to 1980s films like *Revenge of the Nerds*, which popularized socially awkward nerd characters who were positioned in opposition to hyper-masculine jocks.
• 😀 On *The Big Bang Theory*, the four main characters—Leonard, Sheldon, Howard, and Raj—embody different aspects of the adorkable misogynist, engaging in behavior ranging from stalking and objectifying women to manipulating and dismissing their feelings.
• 😀 Despite their problematic behaviors, the characters are framed as likable and sympathetic, with their misogyny being excused as part of their quirky personalities rather than being challenged or critiqued.
• 😀 The show uses ironic humor and 'lamp-shading' to acknowledge the characters' sexist behaviors, making it seem as if the audience is in on the joke, which downplays the seriousness of these actions.
• 😀 The trope is not just a comedic device but reflects a broader societal issue, as similar behaviors are common in real-world geek subcultures, such as in Silicon Valley and the tech industry, where women often experience harassment and discrimination.
• 😀 While the characters in *The Big Bang Theory* may not fit the traditional macho stereotype, their behaviors still perpetuate sexist attitudes, demonstrating that geeky masculinity can still be complicit in maintaining gender inequality.
• 😀 By framing sexist behavior as 'adorable' or 'harmless,' the show trivializes the real harm caused by such actions, particularly in how they affect women’s safety, well-being, and careers.
• 😀 The essay calls for a shift in how geeky male characters are written, advocating for more diverse portrayals of masculinity that do not rely on outdated stereotypes or reinforce harmful gender dynamics.

Q & A

What is the central focus of 'The Big Bang Theory' as described in the script?

The script discusses how 'The Big Bang Theory' centers on four male friends who embody stereotypes of geeks and nerds, characterized by their social awkwardness, insecurities, and lack of traditional masculine traits like confidence or athleticism.

What does the term 'Adorkable Misogynist' mean in the context of the video essay?

An 'Adorkable Misogynist' refers to male characters whose geeky, awkward masculinity is framed as both comically endearing and pathetic, which allows them to get away with sexist, creepy behaviors that would otherwise be criticized.

How are the male characters in 'The Big Bang Theory' presented in terms of their behavior toward women?

The characters are shown engaging in behaviors such as stalking, harassment, objectification, and manipulation of women. These actions are often downplayed or framed as harmless due to the characters' geeky nature.

What role does irony play in the portrayal of sexist behavior in 'The Big Bang Theory'?

Irony, particularly through 'lamp shading,' is used in 'The Big Bang Theory' to acknowledge the sexist behavior of the characters. The writers point out their own characters' problematic actions, hoping to make the audience feel like they're in on the joke, without challenging the sexism itself.

How does 'The Big Bang Theory' portray the geek archetype in contrast to traditional masculine norms?

The geeky characters on 'The Big Bang Theory' are depicted as the antithesis of traditional macho masculinity. They are intellectual, socially awkward, and sensitive, which contrasts with the crude, aggressive masculinity of jocks in popular media.

What is the historical context behind the geeky character trope discussed in the script?

The trope of the socially awkward geek gained prominence in Hollywood during the 1980s, particularly with films like 'Revenge of the Nerds.' This archetype evolved into a common comedic figure by the 1990s, often juxtaposed with jock characters to highlight differences in masculinity.

Why is Howard's character from 'The Big Bang Theory' considered an example of the 'Adorkable Misogynist' trope?

Howard is portrayed as a creepy pervert who objectifies and manipulates women, often using predatory language and behaviors. However, his character is excused because he is also depicted as lovable and quirky, which fits the 'Adorkable Misogynist' archetype.

What does the script suggest about the treatment of sexism in geek culture?

The script argues that sexism in geek culture is often downplayed or excused, particularly when coming from socially awkward, 'geeky' men. It suggests that the sexism is framed as harmless or even endearing, contributing to a culture where such behaviors are tolerated or ignored.

How does 'The Big Bang Theory' handle the theme of consent and sexual harassment?

The show is criticized for presenting behaviors that, in real life, would constitute harassment or assault. However, these actions are often treated as comical or trivialized, which undermines the seriousness of issues like sexual harassment and consent.

What alternative representations of geeky masculinity does the script offer as more positive examples?

The script highlights characters like Abed from 'Community,' Lionel from 'Dear White People,' and Ben from 'Parks and Recreation,' who manage to embody geeky, quirky masculinity without resorting to sexist or misogynistic behaviors.