Brad Wires-Question #1-Analysis of Oleanna

According to Marxist Theory, dominant ideologies are set by the bourgeoisie. The proletariat then adhere to these ideologies. Analyzing Oleanna with Reflection Theory reveals some of these dominant American ideologies. The pursuit of a higher education, for some in America, can be a tantalizing task. This is reflected in the film when Carol says "I have done everything you told me to do. I bought your book. I sit in class and take notes...everything you said" yet Carol still receives a failing grade and a passing grade seems unobtainable. A higher education is, in a sense, required in today's society. This ideology is also reflected when Carol exclaims "How do I...what do they say...get on in my life?" Carol believes a higher education is required to improve her socioeconomic status. This is a dominant ideology in America, go to college, earn good grades, and a good paying job will be waiting. In the film, John's ultimate goal is securing tenure and purchasing a new house for his family. I believe this is something all Americans want, job security. Sexual harassment has been a hot topic in the last few decades. There have been policies put in place to not only protect women from being sexually harassed but also to protect men from false allegations. The film reflects these policies in a realistic way, showing what can happen when false allegations are alleged. I believe sexual harassment ideologies in America are in a transitional grey area. Nothing is really black and white, and this grey area is represented well in the film. Another dominant American ideology is that America is the land of opportunity and anyone is capable of moving up through the social and economic classes, rags to riches, so to speak. Although this is inspiring, the reality is that it only happens on rare occasions. This reality is reflected in Oleanna. Carol says "I come from a different social...a different economic. You don't know what it cost me to come to this school." She has worked very hard and sacrificed to have the same opportunities as someone in a higher social/economic class. I think the author's worldview consists of questioning certain systems. Perhaps sexual harassment policies and the social and economic classes. The author portrays John as the protagonists and Carol as the antagonists. This suggests the author might view radical feminists as a growing concern, and that questioning sexual harassment policies is important.