The Impact of Marilyn Monroe's Image on 1950s American Culture and Sexuality

Marilyn Monroe's screen persona was carefully crafted to appeal to the male gaze, focusing on her blonde hair and associated stereotypes such as dumbness, naïveté, sexual availability, and artificiality. She often used a breathy, childish voice in her films and interviews, giving the impression of innocence and uncalculated behavior. Monroe played roles that emphasized her gender, often portraying chorus girls, secretaries, or models. Her hourglass figure and hip-swinging walk were highlighted in films and publicity photos. Monroe's publicity stunts often involved revealing outfits or wardrobe malfunctions. Despite her screen persona, Monroe was smart and tough, having to navigate the Hollywood studio system. She subtly parodied her sex symbol status and was influenced by Mae West. Monroe's image became a household name for sex in the 1950s, embodying the postwar ideal of the American girl who offered sex without demands. Her sex symbol status made her less popular with women, although this changed after her death.