Female Masculinity in the BoBoiBoy Animated Series

Abstract

Purpose − The persistence of the gender gap today is caused by the lack of gender education during childhood. Gender compartmentalization leads to stereotypes that limit children's development, especially for girls. In this context, an understanding of female masculinity provides space for girls to grow into assertive and independent individuals, empowering them to explore their potential without the hindrance of stereotypes. Animated series are a medium that can serve as a means of education for children due to the high intensity of media exposure in their daily lives. One of the most popular animations in Indonesia is BoBoiBoy. This research aims to uncover the representation of female masculinity in the characters Yaya and Ying within the BoBoiBoy animated series

Method − Using a qualitative method with Roland Barthes' semiotic analysis, this study dissects the denotative, connotative, and mythical meanings of 22 scenes taken from the BoBoiBoy Classic and BoBoiBoy Galaxy series.

Findings − The results show that female masculinity is represented through attributes of courage, physical toughness, rationality, and leadership authority usually attached to male figures. Semiotically, this is visible through the use of functional costumes, dominant body gestures on the battlefield, and instructive dialogues that demonstrate high independence and self-confidence. The presence of Yaya and Ying as sovereign subjects effectively deconstructs traditional myths regarding female vulnerability, while simultaneously offering a superhero concept capable of harmonizing masculine and feminine attributes without having to abandon their gender identity.