BARBIE:

MASTER SYMBOL & ARTIFACT

 

Since her introduction in 1959, Barbie has evolved into a cultural symbol and artifact with countless friends and enemies. Barbie is more than a child’s doll; she is the most popular girl on the toy aisle, a childhood best friend, sex symbol, and an object that reflects the culture of her users. From fashionista to career woman, Barbie has evolved over the decades to represent changing American ideals. She is a polarizing plastic figure with great influence. This website will examine Barbie’s ever changing role as a cultural symbol in American culture.

 

Barbie is a master symbol with many different facets.  For young girls, Barbie is a trusty childhood friend who encourages creativity and imagination whereas many adults assert that Barbie sets unrealistic and unattainable expectations for women. The following pages will discuss Barbie’s role as a symbol of materialism, gender expectations and sex symbol.