Episodes from season one (“Honeymoon”) and five (“The Softer Side”), although differing in terms of new characters, continue to portray patriarchal ideals in various ways. In seasons one and five the male to female ratio of main characters, especially within House’s team is skewed, giving men the majority position. Additionally, in both episodes analyzed, the sole female member of the team is depicted as ‘wrong’ in her ideas, actions, and/or conclusions. In “Honeymoon”, Cameron’s diagnosis is admonished by House and ultimately proved wrong. In “The Softer Side”, Dr. Hadley otherwise known as thirteen, goes against instructions in revealing information to a patient. She is subsequently proven wrong and chastised by the patient’s parents and Cuddy. This speaks to Allan Johnson’s concept that, according to patriarchal society, “females can’t be trusted” (35). It also relates to the patriarchal idea that men are, according to dominant society, considered more intelligent and competent in professional matters. Thus such a media portrayal attempts to legitimize the gender segregation that exists in professional occupations. In addition, the fact that Dr. Hadley is called thirteen, a dehumanizing term that objectifies her existence as a person, further bolsters the shows overall male dominant orientation.

Both episodes also feature a theme of relationships concerning the sole female team member. In season one this involves Cameron and House and in season five it exists between Dr. Hadley and Foreman. This not only portrays the heterosexist stereotype held by dominant society but also bears another subtle connection to patriarchy. In both cases the male is a work authority figure and holds more ‘power’ over the woman. This heterosexist ideal, appearing in both seasons, is connected to our class lecture on February 11, 2009 in which “what is your body expected to do?” (Feb. 11, 2009) was discussed. During the discussion one of the expectations of people is that they “be heterosexual” (Feb. 11, 2009). Shows such as House thus perpetuate the idea that heterosexual relationships are expected and pervade many areas of life, including work.

Abad, Erika G. Washington State University, Pullman, WA. 11 Feb. 2009.

“Honeymoon.” House: Season Two. Exec. Producer Katie Jacobs. FOX. DVD. Universal Studios, 2005.

Johnson, Allan G. “Patriarchy, the System (1997).” Women’s Lives: Multicultural Perspectives. Ed. Gwyn Kirk and Margo Okazawa-Rey. 4th ed. New York: McGraw Hill, 2007. 28-37.

“The Softer Side.” House. Co-Producer Allen Marshall Palmer. FOX. 16 Feb. 2009. 9 March 2009 <http://www.fox.com/fod/play.php?sh=house>.