Anima - Female Gaze - Tomboy vs. Feminine - Male Gaze - Girly

Attribute	Anima - Female Gaze - Tomboy	Feminine - Male Gaze - Girly
Definition	Inner feminine side of a man; perspective of women in media; girl who behaves like a boy	Inner masculine side of a woman; perspective of men in media; girl who behaves in a traditionally feminine way
Representation	Often portrayed as strong, independent, and non-conforming to traditional gender roles	Often portrayed as nurturing, emotional, and conforming to traditional gender roles
Characteristics	Assertive, adventurous, tomboyish, less concerned with appearance	Emotional, nurturing, girly, more concerned with appearance
Perception	Seen as breaking gender norms and challenging stereotypes	Seen as embodying traditional femininity and reinforcing stereotypes

Anima - Female Gaze - Tomboy

Anima, often associated with the female gaze, represents the feminine qualities within a person regardless of their gender. The concept of anima was introduced by psychologist Carl Jung, who believed that everyone has both masculine and feminine aspects within them. In the context of the female gaze, anima is often portrayed as a more tomboyish or androgynous figure. This can manifest in a variety of ways, such as a woman who enjoys traditionally masculine activities like sports or prefers a more casual and comfortable style of dress.

Tomboys, who embody the anima archetype, are often seen as strong, independent, and adventurous. They may reject traditional gender norms and embrace a more gender-neutral or masculine presentation. This can include wearing clothing typically associated with men, participating in sports or other physical activities, and displaying traits like assertiveness and competitiveness. Tomboys challenge societal expectations of femininity and offer a different perspective on what it means to be a woman.

While the anima archetype is often associated with the female gaze, it is important to note that not all women who embody these qualities identify as tomboys. The concept of anima is fluid and can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the individual. Some women may embrace a more tomboyish style and attitude, while others may express their anima through different means, such as creativity, intuition, or emotional sensitivity.

Overall, the anima archetype within the female gaze offers a diverse and nuanced view of femininity that goes beyond traditional stereotypes. It celebrates the complexity and individuality of women, highlighting the many different ways in which femininity can be expressed.

Feminine - Male Gaze - Girly

In contrast to the tomboyish qualities associated with the anima archetype, the feminine attributes within the male gaze are often portrayed as more girly or traditionally feminine. The male gaze, a concept introduced by feminist film theorist Laura Mulvey, refers to the way in which visual media is structured around a heterosexual male perspective. In this context, femininity is often depicted in a way that is pleasing or attractive to men, reinforcing traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

Girly girls, who embody the feminine archetype within the male gaze, are often portrayed as sweet, delicate, and passive. They may embrace traditionally feminine activities and interests, such as fashion, makeup, and relationships. Girly girls are often depicted as being more concerned with their appearance and relationships than with other aspects of their lives, reinforcing the idea that women should prioritize their looks and relationships above all else.

While the feminine archetype within the male gaze can be limiting and reductive, it is important to recognize that not all women who embody these qualities fit neatly into this stereotype. The concept of femininity is complex and multifaceted, and women should be free to express themselves in whatever way feels authentic to them. Some women may embrace a more girly presentation, while others may reject traditional gender norms and embrace a more tomboyish or androgynous style.

Overall, the feminine archetype within the male gaze offers a narrow and often unrealistic view of femininity that can be harmful to women. It reinforces traditional gender roles and stereotypes, limiting the ways in which women can express themselves and be seen in society. It is important to challenge these narrow representations of femininity and embrace a more inclusive and diverse view of what it means to be a woman.