Lady Oscar’s Transmedia Universe between Gender Representation and Seriality in the Digital Age.

Abstract

The narrative ecosystem spawned by the manga Berusaiyu no Bara (henceforth referred to by its English title The Rose of Versailles) (Riyoko Ikeda, 1972-1973) and its renowned protagonist, Lady Oscar, presents itself as a paradigmatic case study in the sphere of digital television seriality. It offers significant insights for the analysis of production and distribution, inter/transmedia dynamics, and the intercultural processes of fandom. This ecosystem stands out for its ability to permeate various media formats, thereby creating a rich transmedia universe. A prime example of its success is the 12-episode anime series, which first aired in Japan in 1979. This series delineates a path reflecting the metamorphosis of media consumption and practices in contemporary mediascape. Furthermore, Lady Oscar (the name given to the anime in France and Italy, where it achieved considerable success) (1979-1980, Nippon Television) assumes a pivotal role in discussions on gender representation in popular culture. The series challenges the tenets of heterosexual romanticism and traditional gender roles, with the protagonist serving as an icon of resistance against gender norms. She offers an alternative model of identity and relationships, resonating with contemporary issues of gender and sexuality. This analysis encompasses the intercultural and transnational processes, focusing on how The Rose of Versailles has captivated an international fandom, particularly in France and Italy. The series becomes a medium for exploring universal themes such as gender identity, social conflicts, and political dynamics, illustrating how a narrative can transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, influencing the perception and discussion of social issues in various contexts. Lady Oscar exemplifies how a television series can act as a crucial medium in narrating social and cultural transformations. Through its transmedia evolution, challenging gender roles, and intercultural resonance, the series provides a unique glimpse into the interaction between production, distribution, consumption, and participation in the contemporary media landscape.