Body Image in Contemporary Culture: An Examination of ESPN Magazine's 'Body Issue'

Analyzing Media Representation of Body Image

Review the Hull et al. article posted on the Moodle page entitled “Form or Function? An Examination of ESPN Magazine’s ‘Body Issue.’”  Additionally, recall the Rees “Tattooing” article for his discussion of “the body as a site for constructing identity.”

Consider to what extent body image is a prevalent issue in contemporary culture.  While media representation of body image is a significant factor in perpetuating stereotypes, consider the changes that have occurred with regards to body image in the past few years/decades more generally to construct an argument.  You may, then, wish to refine your area of focus onto one of the following areas: male or female body image specifically in the 21^st century, body image and self-identification within the LGBTQ community, the relationship between health and body image in the past few decades etc. 

You could do a case study of a particular article, film, blog or newsfeed on something closely related to your topic, or you may choose to view the issue from a more macro perspective. In fact, choosing a case study as an example to analyze can be helpful in narrowing your topic. You could also do a comparison/ contrast between one example and another. These are examples of possible directions; you will want to decide on an aspect of the body image discussion that interests you.  Framing your argument will be key for this assignment