Are you the Madwoman in the Attic? According to G & G, since the beginning of time, all females in our male-constucted societies can be categorized as either angel or monster. The angel is defined as pure, dispassionate, and submissive–the ideal female figure in the eyes of men. The monster is defined as sensual, passionate, rebellious, and decidedly uncontrollable–qualities that cause a great deal of anxiety among men.
Nowhere does the definition allow for a female constructed identity. In today's world of consumerism, celebrities, and criticism, the line between monster vs. angel is used to scrutinize the identities of women everywhere. No wonder why Britney Spears shaved her head, Miley Cyrus twerked on a married man, and Amanda Bynes is being treated for schizophrenia. Women at every level of society are being judged through the male gaze and being compared to the ideal woman. Now imagine your life infront of thousands of cameras and millions of people. Which side would you take?
Lindsay Lohan, at only 27, has had over three visits to rehab, two D.U.I.s, and various legal problems and probation violations between 2010 and 2013. Recently, her photos in Playboy posing as the sex symbol Marilyn Monroe, as well as her release of her alleged sex list of over 36 celebs, has caused her to become a monster in celeb society.
However, 32-year-old Alexis Bledel, known for her roles in "Gilmore Girls" and "Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants," reflects the angelic and responsible characters in her real life. Unlike the promiscuous Lohan, Bledel has had two serious relationships, and has been with her fiance and co-star, Vincent Kartheiser, since 2010.
Lady GaGa, age 27, after her album "The Fame Monster" has given herself the title of Mother Monster, calling her fans Little Monsters. Known for her outrageous and provocative fashion, as well as her role in women's rights activism, GaGa does not conform to the 'ideal' woman in celeb society.
Jumping to the other end of the spectrum, southern angel Carrie Underwood is known for her American Idol victory and marriage to NHL player Mike Fisher. Her personal roles as an animal lover, vegan, and active church member makes her the ultimate ideal woman in the eyes and hearts of her fans and fellow celebs.
By Maggie Maloney