Anatomy in Media: Seeking the Line Between Good and Ghastly

Abstract

This project seeks to examine and contextualize modern portrayals of anatomy, in order to address an apparent shift in television media towards graphic and violent anatomical imagery. Specifically, the present study is concerned with the effects of serial killer narratives on audience perceptions of anatomy, because such shows represent particularly stark examples of brutal anatomical imagery. Additionally, serial killer narratives were chosen because they appear, in their modern iterations, to intentionally humanize their killer characters in an attempt to make them relatable to their audience. This makes them suspect of having an unprecedented ability to affect their audience's perspectives. Such potential engenders the following research questions: 1) Is the anatomical imagery of serial killer narratives anomalous in the wider spectrum of historical and modern genres of anatomical imagery, and 2) Does the anatomical imagery of these narratives appear to have impact on their audiences' perceptions of anatomy? The present study suggests that the images differ from other genres on many fronts, including visual qualities, overall impression, and apparent intended effect. Additionally, the present study suggests that viewers of serial killer narratives are likely to have opposite opinions of anatomical imagery from audiences that have not viewed the same images.