Work

Fractured narratives of consent: Political aesthetics in Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article explores the political aesthetics of Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You , a series that challenges dominant narratives surrounding consent, sexual violence, and trauma through fragmented storytelling and intersectional representation. This analysis, grounded in feminist media studies, examines how the show disrupts racial and patriarchal tropes and redefines agency by addressing the complexities of consent and empowerment. I May Destroy You sheds light on the intricate intersections of race, gender, and sexuality through the experiences of its three main characters: Arabella, Kwame, and Terry. Coel’s inventive approach, employing nonlinear storytelling, surrealist elements, and vivid aesthetics, enriches the conversation around consent, redefining it as a dynamic and context-dependent concept. By blending critical analysis with cultural commentary, this study reveals the transformative potential of audiovisual fiction to foster empathy, challenge societal norms, and inspire feminist activism.

Source: European Journal of Women s Studies

DOI: 10.1177/13505068251375797

Author: Rita Alcaire

Institution: University of Coimbra

Language: English

Topic: Gender, Feminism, and Media

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650