To what extent does the Bechdel test effectively employ rhetorical strategies to challenge gender representation in film, and what are the implications of its success or limitations?

This essay prompt allows you to explore the rhetorical elements used in the Bechdel test, such as its criteria and intended impact on gender representation in film. You can analyze how the test appeals to logic, emotions, and credibility, as well as its potential strengths and weaknesses in achieving its goals. Additionally, you can discuss the broader implications of the Bechdel test’s impact on the film industry and society as a whole.

What will you “do” in your essay? You will aim to practice several writing strategies:

1. Author’s position and Arguments: As you begin writing, begin with establishing the author’s position. What are their beliefs or arguments they are making? What are the rhetorical techniques/ strategies they take in making these claims? Break down how they persuade these ideas.
2. Rhetorical Situation/ Historical Context: Next, you will research the why. What was the rhetorical situation/ exigence behind the writing of this piece? What time period was this piece written? What were the circumstances that the writer had in mind? Keep your selected main theme in mind and give the background information as to why this reading was written in the first place. 
3. Further research into the Theme: Find outside sources that speak about your selected reading/ theme. *This should not be texts from class* How do these sources offer more insight into the theme? Break down how these sources help further expand on the ideas expressed previously. This could take the form of another work written by the author. 
4. Opposition Analysis/Counterargument: Look into sources that challenge the theme/ author discussed. What are the opposition’s arguments/ rhetorical strategies? Would you counter this argument or even agree with the opposition? Be clear on your position. 
5. Your arguments/ Insights: Finally, you will expand on your position. Do you agree or disagree with the arguments made from your selected sources? Use your as many sources as you wish to rhetorically prove the validity of your position. If you wish to take a neutral position, explain why?