Construction of gender identities and the paradox of subversion in “rick and morty”

With the rise of sitcoms and television series arises the question of how gender and its attributes are represented in the contemporary world. It is impossible to step out of the narrative of gender, which implies that either gender roles and stereotypes can be conformed to, or not conformed to. The show has been mostly located within the post-modern culture as it is self-reflexive by nature, it includes elements of Baudrillard’s Simulacre, it inculcates within itself Marxist and nihilistic ideas mostly shown through its anti-capitalist nature and Morty’s take on life. “Raising Gazorpazorp” and “Big Trouble in Little Sanchez”,” “Lawnmower’s Dog” and “Rickchurian Date” are some of the episodes that address the discourse of gender and its representation. This paper attempts to do a feminist criticism of the text, by looking at specific episodes (mentioned above) and using specific theories of the discourse of feminist theory namely ideas of Kate Miller, Judy Butler, and Angela McRobbie. It points out instances in the text where gender roles are being abided by, and where they are being broken. Gender and Sexuality is a theme subtly present throughout the narrative: it has been done primarily through the cynical character of Rick and the complex relationship shared by Jerry and Beth and how gender functions in today’s world. In “Rick and Morty”, the creators of the show Harmon and Roiland, in attempt to address gender stereotypes, and the problems of rigid gender roles, create further stereotypes and paradoxically subvert them in the process.