Hall's Representation theory recap.

 Stuart Hall's theory of representation states that white, middle class heterosexual men have the most power in the media industry and therefore representations of women and ethnic minority characters tend to be reduced to stereotypical, often negative portrayals.

• How far do you agree that this is true in Stranger Things?
• Jim Hopper fits the idea of a heterosexual, white male in power as the sheriff, as in the first episode of season 1, he goes in to work late and doesn't really care about anyone's opinion on it as he is the boss. He also interrupts his assistant(?) when she is talking about what needs to be done, he just loudly repeats, "coffee and contemplation!" without really giving any care into the work that has to be done. Also, the fact that he interrupts his female receptionist is blatantly rude, and we can also identify the stereotype of female receptionists who take orders from big boss men. Furthermore, when Joyce shows up freaking out about Will being missing, Hopper tries to write it off as, 'well, that's just sometimes what kids do' and Joyce has to really push on the issue, showing the audience subtle hints of women being represented as minor characters that are not especially listened to.
• How far do you agree that this is true in Deutschland 83?
• Martin Rauch's aunt is actually the one in control as she blackmails him with the well-being of his family to get him to do her bidding and become a spy in the West. This is a subversion of stereotypes and actually is exposing power structures that destroy what society views as normal, keeping representation open for all identities in a more positive way. Of course, there are many male characters in power such as Walter Schweppenstette, however we also see this character and Lenora Rauch working alongside each other; we see that this female is being listened to and she is important to the plot and the story, unlike how Stranger Things views many of their female characters.