From villainous vixen to feminist icon: a critical analysis of Lilith in Shadowhunters (2016–2019) and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018–)

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to examine the contemporary representation of the mythological figure Lilith. To complete this examination, this study briefly explores the intricate history of Lilith and her manifestations. This study investigates Lilith and how she is represented in a contemporary postfeminist media economy. Furthermore, the femme fatale, the abject and the female grotesque are explored. Lastly, this study examines two contemporary series that position Lilith as a prominent character. These series are: Shadowhunters (2016–2019) and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018–). In the last section of this study, the concepts and tropes as outlined above are applied to the selected series. This dissertation aims to examine Lilith’s ambiguous position in relation to contemporary feminist politics.