Examining the Impact Emilia Clarke has Had on Representation

Since her debut in the HBO series Game of Thrones, Emilia Clarke has become a powerful force in the entertainment industry and an inspiring role model for many. Her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen, the beloved and iconic “Mother of Dragons,” has had a profound impact on representation in media. Clarke’s performance has been widely praised for its complexity and authenticity. Her portrayal of Daenerys demonstrates that strong, powerful female characters can be both sympathetic and inspiring. It has pushed the boundaries of how female characters are handled in popular media, providing a much-needed alternative to the traditionally one-dimensional portrayal of female characters. Not only has Clarke’s performance created a more positive representation of female characters, it has also helped to normalize diverse bodies. Her willingness to appear on camera without the use of airbrushing or heavy makeup has been especially inspiring for many viewers. Her physique is not the typical Hollywood “ideal” and her willingness to show her body as it is has been a powerful statement. Finally, Clarke has been lauded for her off-screen activism. She has used her platform to speak out on issues such as gender pay gaps in Hollywood and gender-based violence. She has also been involved in numerous charitable causes, notably her work for the Royal College of Nursing in the United Kingdom. In sum, Emilia Clarke’s performance on Game of Thrones has had a profound impact on representation in media. Her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen has pushed the boundaries of how female characters are portrayed, her refusal to conform to Hollywood’s “ideal” body type has normalized diverse bodies, and her off-screen activism has brought attention to important causes. Her influence has been inspiring for many and her legacy will be felt for years to come.