Annalise Keating

Definition

Annalise Keating is a fictional character and the lead in the television series 'How to Get Away with Murder,' portrayed by Viola Davis. She embodies the 'strong female character' trope but critiques it through her complex portrayal, addressing themes of race, gender, and morality. Her character challenges traditional narratives by being both a powerful legal educator and a deeply flawed individual, illustrating the multifaceted nature of female protagonists in contemporary storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Annalise Keating is notable for being one of the first Black women to lead a network television drama, breaking racial and gender barriers in the industry.
2. Her character's complexity is revealed through her personal struggles, including issues related to her past trauma, relationships, and ethical dilemmas in her legal practice.
3. Viola Davis won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her portrayal of Annalise, making her the first Black woman to win this award.
4. Annalise's narrative arc explores themes of power dynamics in law, illustrating how her gender and race affect her experiences in a predominantly white male profession.
5. The show utilizes flashbacks and nonlinear storytelling to deepen viewers' understanding of Annalise's motivations and decisions, challenging conventional narrative structures.

Review Questions

• How does Annalise Keating both exemplify and critique the 'strong female character' trope within her narrative?
  • Annalise Keating exemplifies the 'strong female character' trope through her powerful presence as a legal expert and educator, showcasing traits like resilience and intelligence. However, she also critiques this trope by displaying vulnerability, making morally questionable decisions, and confronting personal struggles that reveal her complexity. This duality highlights that strength does not preclude flaws or emotional depth, offering a more nuanced portrayal of women in lead roles.
• In what ways does Annalise's character address intersectionality in terms of race and gender within the legal profession?
  • Annalise Keating's character navigates the intersections of race and gender as a prominent Black female attorney in a predominantly white male legal field. Her experiences illustrate the unique challenges faced by women of color, such as discrimination and biases in professional settings. Through her journey, the series brings attention to systemic inequalities while also showcasing her fight against them, enriching the narrative with layers of social commentary.
• Evaluate the impact that Annalise Keating's portrayal has had on the representation of women in media and the industry at large.
  • Annalise Keating's portrayal has significantly impacted representation by breaking stereotypes associated with female leads, particularly women of color. By presenting a multi-dimensional character who balances power with vulnerability, she has paved the way for more authentic depictions of women in television. This shift encourages networks to invest in diverse narratives that reflect real-world complexities, thus contributing to a broader cultural understanding of women's roles both on-screen and behind the scenes.

Related terms

Strong Female Character: A trope often defined by a woman who exhibits traditionally masculine traits such as strength, independence, and resilience, but can sometimes lack depth or complexity.

Intersectionality: A framework that examines how various social identities, including race, gender, and class, intersect and impact individuals' experiences and opportunities.

Antihero: A central character in a story who lacks conventional heroic attributes, often exhibiting morally ambiguous behaviors and characteristics.