The Simpsons

The show Simpsons seems to display a very heteronormative society, focusing on many aspects we have discussed in our English class. The first concept that was apparent through the first Simpsons episode we viewed was performativity between Bart and his new girlfriend Greta. Bart seems kind of unsure about how he feels about Greta, yet he acts as he knows he is expected to according to society, by displaying his feelings as if he likes her even when he seems unsure. Next, we see mimetic desire, after Bart decides to break up with Greta, his best friend (Milhouse) starts to date her. Bart now decides he wants Greta back and his feelings increase for her as he sees Milhouse with her. He wants Greta because Milhouse has her, and he knows she is now unattainable to him. We see an erotic triangle form between the three as Milhouse and Bart the subjects wanted Greta the object. They start out friends, but eventually become violent and are fighting over a girl. In the end, Greta decides she does not like either of the two, and after she leaves their friendship is reunited and we can once again observe the homosocial bond between Bart and Milhouse, as they agree to be friends that is until the next girl.
I think the Simpsons is geared towards adults and teenagers, however, I know many children watch it as well. They see that it appears to be a cartoon, and therefore watch it and generally like it although they do not always understand what is going on beneath the surface. This is problematic as I know many parents do not like their children to be exposed to everything in the show and therefore do not like for their children to watch it.