Behind the Shield and Under the Sheets: Gendered Live Action Role Playing Games

• In Event: 109 - Student Forum Roundtable Session.
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 02.

Abstract

While previous research indicates that in some subcultures, female geeks are heralded for breaking into an otherwise male domain (e.g., science fiction), the same may not be true for Live Action Role Playing. This paper examines how power, inequality, and gender navigated within a Live Action Role Playing Game. Through 12 weeks of participant observation and 10 in-depth interviews with LARP Amtgard members, results suggest that due to both gendered patriarchal norms and historical context surrounding role play during Medieval times, women have little access to power. Due to their reduced power, women are more likely to be over sexualized and objectified. These themes were present during accounts of in-game aspects, such as fighting and role playing. In every interview, both male and female participants brought up the topic of sexuality before it had been formally introduced. The results confirmed that women lack voice and power within Amtgard.

Author

• Shannon Boepple, University of Northern Colorado