Lecture Notes: Arcane and Queer Subtext in Media

Introduction

• Major Spoilers for both seasons of Arcane.
• Exploration of male friendships and their depiction in media.
• Focus on the relationship between Jace and Victor.
• Comparison to Caitlyn and Vi's explicit relationship.

Understanding Subtext

• Subtext: Underlying or implicit meaning in media.
• Media often chooses what is explicit and what remains subtextual.
• Subtext adds depth to character relationships and storylines.

Use of Subtext in Arcane

• Editing and Animation: Used effectively to convey subtext.
• Example: Jace and Mel's relationship intercut with Victor’s scenes.
• Mel and Victor’s parallel importance to Jace.
• Jace and Victor's Relationship:
  • Deep connection, more than friendship.
  • Vic's presence offers Jace a space to be himself.
  • Comparison with Mel's role as Jace's confidant.

Queer Representation in Arcane

• Vi and Caitlyn: Explicitly shown as a romantic couple.
• Jace and Victor: Relationship left more ambiguous.
• Allows viewers to interpret their relationship in various ways.

Literary and Cultural References

• Anime Influences: Similarities to relationships in anime like "Moka Magika."
• Biblical References: Parallels drawn between Victor as a Jesus figure and Jace as Judas.

Asexuality and Queer Relationships

• Victor's Asexuality: As stated by co-creator Christian Linke.
• Asexuality and romantic attraction are separate spectrums.
• Queer Platonic Relationships: Importance of deep, non-romantic bonds.
  • Jace and Victor’s partnership as an example.

Conclusion and Opinion

• Jace’s Character: Seen as bisexual and polyamorous.
• Interpretation of Relationships: Subjective and open to personal perspective.
• Fandom and Enjoyment: Encourages watching Arcane with an open mind.

Final Thoughts

• Encourages viewers to form their own opinions on the relationships portrayed.
• Emphasizes the importance of subtext in media and storytelling.
• Recognizes Arcane as a rich text for analysis and discussion.

These notes provide an overview of key points discussed in the lecture on the representation and subtext of relationships, particularly queer dynamics, in the series Arcane.