GQ - Language & Representation blog tasks

 Language: Media factsheet

Complete the following tasks using Media Factsheet 252 - The Codes and Conventions of Print Magazines available in our Media Factsheet archive here. Answer the following questions:

1) What are the different magazine genres highlighted on page 2 and how do they link to our magazine CSPs?

The magazine genres are general interest, special interest, and professional magazines. Our CSP magazines mostly fit into general interest and special interest because they target specific audiences.

2) Look at the section on GQ on page 2. How do they suggest that GQ targets its audience?

GQ targets men through fashion, culture, and lifestyle content. It uses stylish images and famous celebrities to attract readers.

3) What does the factsheet say about GQ cover stars

The factsheet says GQ chooses cover stars carefully so they match the magazine’s values and appeal to its audience.

4) Pick out five of the key conventions of magazine front covers and explain what they communicate to an audience.

The masthead creates brand identity. The main image attracts attention. Coverlines give information about stories inside. Puffs highlight important features. Pull quotes create interest and excitement.

5) What is a magazine’s ‘house style’? How would you describe GQ’s house 

A house style is the magazine’s consistent look and design. GQ’s house style is stylish, modern, and sophisticated

Extension tasks: Look at the final pages of the magazine factsheet that focus on creating magazine pages for coursework. What can you take from this to help future coursework projects? 

Language: CSP analysis

Use your annotated CSP pages to help answer the following questions. You can find an annotated copy of the GQ pages here (you'll need your Greenford Google login).

1) Write a summary of our annotations on the media language choices on the cover of GQ - e.g. colour scheme, typography, language, photographic codes 

The GQ cover uses dark blue and black colours which suggest masculinity and sophistication. The bright lighting on Robert Pattinson makes him stand out and creates a dramatic effect. The typography is unusual and messy, fitting the “Art & Fashion” theme and making the magazine seem creative and edgy. Pattinson’s direct gaze challenges the audience and creates confidence. His styling, including jewellery, messy hair, and bruised makeup, creates a rebellious image and challenges traditional masculinity.

2) Identify three specific aspects/conventions/important points (e.g. cover lines, colour scheme, use of text, image etc.) from each page/feature of the CSP that you could refer to in a future exam. Explain why that particular aspect of the CSP is important - think about connotations, representations, audience pleasures, reception theory etc.

Front cover: Robert Pattinson image - Art & Fashion issue

Inside pages: Jonathan Bailey feature and fashion shoo

The close-up image of Robert Pattinson is important because it creates an intense connection with the audience and presents a less traditional version of masculinity.The handwritten typography is important because it reflects creativity and links to the “Art & Fashion” issue.The colour scheme of dark tones and pale lighting creates sophistication but also a rebellious mood

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3) Apply narrative theories to GQ - Todorov's equilibrium, Propp's character types, Barthes' action or enigma codes, Levi-Strauss's binary opposition. How can we use narrative to understand the way the cover and features have been constructed?

Narrative theories help explain how GQ constructs celebrity identity. Barthes’ enigma codes are used through unusual fashion and expressions that make readers curious about the celebrities. Levi-Strauss’s binary oppositions appear through contrasts such as masculine/feminine and traditional/rebellious. Propp’s character theory could present Pattinson as an anti-hero because he challenges the normal “perfect male celebrity” image. Todorov’s disequilibrium can be seen in Pattinson reinventing his image compared to his earlier Twilight fame.

4) Analyse the cover and inside pages of GQ. Does this offer an example of Steve Neale's genre theory concerning 'repetition and difference'?

GQ fits Steve Neale’s theory of repetition and difference because it repeats normal magazine conventions like celebrity covers, fashion photography, and interviews, but also adds difference through experimental photography, artistic typography, and less traditional representations of masculinity. This keeps the magazine familiar while still appearing modern and original.

Representations: applying theory

We have already covered many relevant theories in our work on Advertising and Marketing (for example, David Gauntlett's writing on Media, Gender and Identity). We now need to apply these theories and ideas to GQ and specifically the CSP pages allocated by AQA.

1) How can Gauntlett's ideas on masculinity, gender and identity be applied to the GQ CSP pages we have analysed?

Gauntlett’s theory applies because GQ shows modern masculinity as flexible and changing. Jonathan Bailey and Robert Pattinson challenge traditional male stereotypes through fashion and styling.
2) How could van Zoonen's work on feminist and gender theory be applied to GQ? Does the magazine challenge or reinforce these ideas?

Van Zoonen’s theory can be applied because GQ constructs gender through media representations. The magazine challenges stereotypes by showing softer masculinity, but still uses attractive celebrities and fashion ideals.



3) Does bell hooks's work on 'corrosive masculinity' apply to GQ? 

bell hooks’s idea of corrosive masculinity partly applies because GQ moves away from aggressive male stereotypes and promotes more emotional and stylish masculinity.

4) How does the Jonathan Bailey feature represent masculinity and sexuality? 

The Jonathan Bailey feature presents masculinity as fashionable, softer, and less traditional. His poses and clothing suggest a more modern view of male identity and sexuality.

Representations: wider reading - GQ and the new masculinity

Read this CNN feature on how GQ is redefining masculinity and answer the following questions:

1) Which GQ issue is discussed at the start of the article and what was notable about it? 

The article starts with GQ’s New Masculinity issue featuring Pharrell Williams on the cover. It was notable because it challenged traditional ideas of masculinity, with Pharrell wearing clothing that questioned gender stereotypes.

2) How did Will Welch view GQ when he took over as Editor-in-Chief and what did he want to offer readers? 

Will Welch believed GQ needed to move away from old stereotypes of what it meant to be a man. He wanted the magazine to reflect modern masculinity by covering topics like identity, mental health and culture.

3) How has publisher Conde Nast responded to changes in the magazine industry and how did this impact 

Condé Nast responded to changes in the magazine industry by investing more in digital content and online platforms. This allowed GQ to reach a wider audience and expand its content beyond fashion into social and cultural issues.

4) What did the GQ New Masculinity edition feature? 

The New Masculinity edition featured articles and interviews about gender, identity, mental health, inclusivity and changing ideas about masculinity. It encouraged readers to think differently about what it means to be a man.

5) What did journalist Liz Plank say about toxic masculinity?

Liz Plank said toxic masculinity is made up of harmful expectations that pressure men to hide their emotions, avoid asking for help and always appear strong. She argued these ideas can harm men’s mental health and relationship

6) How did Welch respond to suggestions GQ was responsible for toxic masculinity?

Welch said GQ was not responsible for promoting toxic masculinity and that the magazine was instead working to challenge outdated ideas. He said GQ wants to encourage healthier and more inclusive conversations about masculinity.

Finally, read this short GQ feature on masculinity and answer the following questions:

1) What does the article suggest masculinity involved at the start of the 20th century

The article suggests that at the start of the 20th century, masculinity was linked to strength, toughness, independence and being the family’s main provider. Men were expected to be emotionally controlled and responsible for supporting their families.

2) What social change occurred from the 1930s?

From the 1930s onwards, changing gender roles and social attitudes began to challenge traditional ideas of masculinity, giving men and women more freedom to move away from fixed gender expectations.

3) What is suggested about masculinity 

Today, masculinity is seen as more open and flexible, with men being encouraged to express emotions, accept different identities and reject harmful stereotypes. There is greater acceptance that there are many different ways to be masculine.

4) Why does it suggest these changes are important? 

These changes are important because they promote equality, improve mental health and allow people to express themselves without being limited by traditional gender roles. They also encourage more inclusive attitudes and healthier relationships.