The Joker movie: the representation of self based on hegemony theory

Abstract

This research paper sets out to discuss the identity formation and self-presentation of the main character, Arthur, in the Joker film (2019), while focusing on psychological and sociopolitical elements comprising the mental capacity of Arthur (henceforth, the Joker), his social upbringing and childhood trauma, and the corrupt superstructure (i.e., ruling class). The research explores the aforementioned mechanisms that actively participate in the social identity formation of the Joker, starting from his socially unjustified mental illness that affected base structures (i.e., large masses) awareness to ruling class hegemony to glorifying the joker’s personality as a public hero despite the horrendous crimes he committed. In effect, they patronize him as a symbol of resistance and against capitalist discourses and ruling class corruption while disregarding his horrible actions. This research examines the transformation of the Joker’s identity from a comedian to a murderer, showing the norms or matrix of society that helped in the transformation of Joker’s identity ideologically and psychologically. The researcher uses a content analysis of certain scenes depicting the Joker as a hero or a criminal in society.

Keywords:

• Arthur
• identity
• Joker
• representation
• the ideal self

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mohammad Zaid

Mohammad Zaid is an experienced English Language Instructor with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. Skilled in Intercultural Communication, English as a Second Language (ESL), Teaching English as a Foreign Language, Translation, and Lecturing. He holds a Master’s degree focused in Applied Linguistics and Translation from An-Najah National University - Nablus. He is also a licensed-English Arabic translator.