Beyonce - Run The World Analysis

"Run the World" was written and performed by American artist Beyoncé. The video shows a war between men and women. This song is said to be a feminist anthem because the whole song talks about women empowerment over the men. In the video, Beyoncé is seen as a leader, being powerful, being dominant and having a masculine personality. Firstly, the atmosphere is smoky and it is set in a war zone. The fact that this video is set in a warzone atmosphere could show that Beyoncé is serious to her words when she repeats that "girls run the world". Furthermore, the use of the wild animals symbolises courage, bravery, wisdom which is expressed by Beyoncé throughout the video. Beyoncé is wearing a gold gladiator outfit as well as a gold crown. This shows that she has power and that she is in control. All through the song she repeats " Girls, we run this motha", " who runs the world girls". Clearly she is indicating that women run the world and she is also showing that women have power.

All through the video, Beyoncé is presented with other women like herself. They are all wearing similar outfits to Beyoncé and copying her dance moves still showing power, control and order. Also, at the start of the dancing, two men are dancing with Beyonce being on her side. Instantly we can see that she has authority over them. Also we can see the manly personality in her and how she uses it to take control over the men. Furthermore, the use of long shots and low shots emphasises power and order.

Although this song is about women empowerment, Beyoncés lyrics and actions could suggest that her song is slightly sexual. Beyoncé dances seductively towards the men whilst wearing a variety of outfits. She goes down on her knees and dances in a sexual manner whilst moving her hips and making sexual eye contact to the audience. She is mostly dressed however she still reveals her lower body mostly through the video. Furthermore, she states "boy I'm just playing", "come here baby" which shows dominance. Overall this could imply sexual display to the viewers.