The television series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", derived from an early 1990's film by the same name, has given birth to the new figure in popular teen culture: The Slayer. Joss Whedon's teen vampire slayer, Buffy, and her band of accomplices are appealing because they operate within the boundaries of our own culture, albeit with our anxieties taking the form of demons. The slayer has become a metaphor for taking control in the all-too-confusing world of Teenage Youth. This essay will explore this theme and how it contributes to the show's popularity on television. In doing so, it will also examine the "Girl Power" wave of the mid-nineties, and its impact on the character of Buffy as part of its larger media impact, as well as Buffy's impact on the portrayal of young women on television and beyond. Added to this girl power, is the popular eternal theme used to obvious effect is good conquering evil.

In the past women have been restricted to roles that are considered "traditional". Roles associated with traits including emotionality, prudence and compliance, where the males were portrayed through their rationality, efficiency, individualism and ruthlessness

Another reason "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" is so popular is because it is quality television. Why? Because it has something new to say. It's original, fresh approach stands out. Joss Wheldon is forever breaking new ground in each episode, using a degree of inventiveness and imagination. He dares to tackle issues, themes, and characters that oppose traditional values. A view aticulated by Mr Zev Braun, from Zev Braun Productions, Los Angeles is,

There is also no doubt that the character Angel is hot property. The vampire with a conscious is arguably the most sexualised character in the whole series. Buffy and Angel's relationship enables various plot expansions with the secret trysts, the dynamic love, and powerful hate and the star-crossed lover's approach successfully worked. His character is one of the only ones who refrains from using his wit, savvy or any special talent. He is portrayed as dark and brooding and played by David Boreanaz who was picked off the street for the role.

Here emerges the millennium girl: the 21st century tomboy, super girl, and teen heroine. Maybe that is why we like her so much. The show's commercial success depends upon this definition of femininity and sex appeal. Despite all her bravado and physical strength she is still girlie through and through. Part of her mass audience appeal, is that there is no doubting that she is gorgeous in looks and personality.

'both all men and women are aware if the cultural prevalence of traditional gender stereotypes, and television contributes to this awareness.'

The program appeals to and satisfies the audience through good characterisation and clever dialogue. In the space one episode, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" accommodates, humour, character interaction and development and flaunts the monstrous, fantastic and supernatural. The combination of these elements are at the heart of the show's popularity.

"Buffy the Vampire Slayer" also confronts authority in the form of our young heroes - Buffy, Angel, Willow and Xander - undermining the institutions of power - the mayor, Principal Snyder, Professor. Walsh. The distrust of The System is entirely justified, as no one else seems too concerned with the bizarre happenings in the Californian town Sunnydale -teachers, police and Buffy's career-driven mom are oblivious.

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Approximate Word count = 2140
Approximate Pages = 9 (250 words per page double spaced)