Barbie Character Analysis

Introduction and Role in the Text

Barbie serves as the protagonist of the film Barbie, representing the quintessential Stereotypical Barbie.

Her initial role is to embody an idealised, seemingly perfect existence within Barbieland.

She drives the narrative forward by experiencing an existential crisis, prompting her journey to the Real World.

Character Traits with Supporting Evidence

Initial Traits

• Optimistic: Barbie begins each day with unwavering cheerfulness, greeting her neighbours enthusiastically. Her catchphrase, “Hi, Barbie!” exemplifies this.
• Conformist: She adheres strictly to the Barbieland routine and expectations, believing her existence positively impacts women in the Real World.
• Naïve: Barbie displays a lack of understanding about the complexities and inequalities of the Real World. She is genuinely surprised by the negative reactions she receives.

Evolving Traits

• Curious: Her journey is sparked by a desire to understand her existential thoughts and restore her perfect life.
• Resilient: Despite facing harsh realities and emotional turmoil, Barbie perseveres in her quest for self-discovery.
• Empathetic: She develops a deeper understanding and compassion for human struggles, particularly after meeting Gloria.

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Character Development Arc

Barbie begins as an archetype, a ‘Stereotypical Barbie’ living a flawless, predetermined life.

Her initial state is one of blissful ignorance, untroubled by self-doubt or external pressures.

The appearance of flat feet and thoughts of death shatter this illusion, initiating her transformation.

Her journey to the Real World exposes her to sexism and societal expectations, challenging her core beliefs.

She moves from an objectified ideal to an individual grappling with identity and purpose.

By the end, Barbie embraces her humanity, choosing a life with imperfections and genuine experience.

Key Relationships and How They Shape the Character

• Ken: Ken’s devotion highlights Barbie’s initial self-absorption and her role as an object of desire. His subsequent discovery of patriarchy in the Real World creates conflict, forcing Barbie to confront gender dynamics.
• Gloria: Gloria acts as a mentor and guide, helping Barbie navigate the complexities of the Real World. Her insights into womanhood and motherhood are crucial for Barbie’s emotional growth.
• Ruth Handler: The creator of Barbie represents a maternal figure, providing existential guidance and granting Barbie the choice to become human. Ruth symbolises the power of creation and self-determination.

Significance to Major Themes

• Feminism and Patriarchy: Barbie’s journey directly challenges traditional gender roles and exposes the impact of patriarchal structures. She learns that her existence in Barbieland did not translate to real-world empowerment.
• Identity and Self-Discovery: Her arc is central to the theme of finding one’s authentic self beyond societal expectations. She moves from a manufactured identity to a deeply personal one.
• Existentialism: Barbie’s initial crisis and subsequent search for meaning drive the film’s exploration of life, death, and purpose. She ultimately chooses to embrace the human experience.

Memorable Quotes from or About This Character

• “I’m not a doll, I’m a person.” This declaration marks a pivotal moment in her self-realisation.
• “I want to be part of the people who make meaning, not the thing that is made.” This reflects her desire for agency.
• “You’ve been living the life you chose. Or the life that was chosen for you.” Ruth Handler’s words challenge Barbie’s perception of her own free will.

Exam Tips: How to Use This Character in Answers

• Analyse Barbie as a symbol of evolving female empowerment and societal expectations.
• Discuss her as a dynamic character who undergoes significant personal growth and transformation.
• Link her experiences to the film’s general vision and viewpoint on gender roles and human identity.
• Use her relationships, particularly with Gloria and Ken, to illustrate thematic points.
• Focus on her journey from an idealised figure to a fully realised human.

Motivations, Conflicts, and Changes Throughout the Text

Initially, Barbie is motivated by a desire to fix her perceived ‘flaws’ and return to her perfect life.

This shifts to a motivation for understanding herself and her purpose in the Real World.

Her primary conflict is internal, grappling with who she is outside of being ‘Barbie’.

External conflicts arise from the patriarchal system in the Real World and Ken’s actions.

She changes from an objectified ideal to an autonomous individual, choosing humanity over perfection.

This transition underscores the film’s message about embracing life’s complexities.

Related Pages

• Barbie Study Guide
• Barbie Summary
• Themes in Barbie
• Key Moments in Barbie
• Key Quotes in Barbie
• Ken Character Analysis