Who gets to be the hero(ine)? Analysing female and male role models in Japanese textbooks of English as a foreign language

Abstract

Research on textbooks of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in Japan has pointed out issues in gender and ethnic representation. Sustained efforts to achieve equal representation of both subjects have led to more balanced contents, but the problem has not yet been overcome. The aim of this paper is to address how the ‘role model’ genre found in Japanese EFL high school textbooks perpetuates negative stereotypes and ideologies through consistent misrepresentation. The findings point to an under-representation of female, foreign and diverse characters, often relegated to submissive archetypes (such as nature and environmental concerns) as opposed to the athletes, winners and successful individuals portrayed by active Japanese male characters.