"A Christian Viking and a Pagan Whore" : En socialpsykologisk studie om stereotyper och grupptillhörighet i tv-serien Vikings Valhalla med hjälp av social identitetsteori.

Sammanfattning: This study applies social identity theory to analyze social identification, social categorization, social comparison, and stereotypes in the first season of Vikings Valhalla. The analysis focuses on the portrayal of different stereotypes associated with the selected ethnic groups: Christians, pagans, and Christian Vikings, through clothing, behavior, language, and beliefs. These stereotypes serve as tools to establish character identities and differentiate between the groups. Despite the limited application of social identity theory in popular culture studies, this study demonstrates its usefulness in understanding group membership and social relationships in a fictional context. By applying social identity theory, the study provides insights into the social relationships among the chosen ethnic groups in the first season. It is observed that individuals strive for a positive social identity through group membership, identifying with and supporting their group members while also establishing boundaries against other groups. This can lead to the emergence of stereotypes, prejudices, and conflicts between the groups, which also shape perceptions and behaviors towards other groups. The study employs a qualitative content analysis method with a focus on visual aspects. It addresses three research questions related to religious and cultural stereotypes, social categorization, and social relationships. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the religious and social dynamics portrayed in the first season of the TV series Vikings Valhalla. By analyzing the behaviors and interactions of the characters, it provides insights into how group membership, boundaries, and conflicts shape individuals' identities and influence their relationships with other groups in the series. This research emphasizes the complexity and fluidity of social identities and raises new avenues for future research in the field.