Rebecca Bowman and the Articulation of Identity and Power in Banshee (2013-2016)

Abstract

Individuals construct their identity following the discourse that is present in their community and family, state apparatuses which establish a hegemonic discourse that is expected to be perpetuated by their members through cultural practices. Each being h as the agency to construct an individual and unique identity, an example of power and freedom. However, some communities, like the Amish, impose limits on the definition of one’s self, and the transgression of those boundaries will be the scope of this ess ay. This paper analyses the construction of Rebecca Bowman’s identity in Banshee by means of the articulation of power through cultural practices which give rise to agency: violence and sexuality. The cultural construction of identity will be examined cons idering the concept of cultural capital and semiotics, where the symbolism of clothes will be relevant for the definition of one’s identity. In addition, the questioning of the self gives rise to an identity crisis, a key element in Rebecca’s life that is studied as a point of inflection which culminates in the choice of her new identity. Apart from physical violence as an empowering means, symbolic violence is discussed to show how it is also a form of control for the individual, who usually consents to th at system of violence since it is not tangible. Moreover, a post - feminist view of sexuality turns to be a considerable empowering tool for Rebecca’s new identity.