Representational Codes

     The various signs in Friends are combined into representation codes in order to signify a particular meaning for the program. The representational codes are not only attributed to the dialogue of the characters in signifying the genre of show, but also what the dialogue represents in regards to notions of masculinity and femininity within our culture. Friends, ultimately uses stereotypical signs which signify traditional gender expectations and roles.

Traditional Stereotypes

     Friends uses signs which play upon dominate stereotypes within our society, so they are easily identifiable to the largest audience possible. This can be illustrated when looking at notions of masculinity and femininity within the episode "The One With the Rumour." The stereotypical image of the woman in the kitchen is seen in this episode as Monica spends her time in the kitchen preparing the big Thanksgiving meal, as Chandler (her husband) “pretends” to be interested in a football game so he does not have to help her in the kitchen. Through this scene Friends is ultimately reproducing traditional gender roles ascribed to males and females.

     Traditional stereotypes of masculinity and femininity are also reinforced when looking at the physical appearances and characteristics of the characters. As women are stereotyped as being fragile and looked upon for their beauty, men are seen to be rugged and tough. These stereotypes are illustrated in Friends in the scene of them eating their Thanksgiving meal. Rachel, who is looked upon for her sex appeal and beauty is not shown filling her plate with food as she must keep her trim figure. Rachel also becomes fussy when everyone is passing the food as the smell of the different types of foods begins to make her noxious. On the other hand, Joey is commended for being able to eat a whole turkey on his own, and still have room for apple pie. These signs signify traditional stereotypes ascribed to males and females. Friends uses these stereotypes as signs to indicate the characteristics of the characters because they are ingrained within our society as natural, and ultimately makes them easy to decode for its audience.

Vanessa Principe

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