"They Called Me Wonder Woman": Identifications and Representations in Wonder Woman Media

Wonder Woman was originally created as feminist propaganda, but there remains controversy over whether she truly represents feminist values. Many researchers have tried to settle the question by examining Wonder Woman media, but few have explored the role Wonder Woman plays in the lives and identities of fans. To accomplish this task, a survey was designed to ask participants about their experiences interacting with Wonder Woman media. The results showed that fans actively use their favorite versions of Wonder Woman to create their own model of her ethical principles, while dismissing versions of the character that they feel are not in keeping with her “true” character. Audiences identify with Wonder Woman, and bring her character traits and values into their daily lives. Audiences are inspired by Wonder Woman to aim higher, to improve their own character, and to act with greater love and tolerance, especially towards gender and sexual minorities.