Alba Gómez García is Lecturer in Spanish Literature and Cultural Studies at Carlos III University of Madrid, Spain.
PhD in Humanities, Carlos III University of Madrid, Spain (2018)
MA in Cultural Heritage, Carlos III University of Madrid, Spain (2016)
BA in Audiovisual Communication, Degree in Journalism, Carlos III University of Madrid, Spain (2015)
Hispanism, Cultural Studies, Representation of disability in the performing, Visual and digital arts, Theatrical production in post-war Spain, Contribution of women to theater and film.
Duration
3 months, September - November 2025; May 2026
Host at the University of Passau
Prof. Dr. Susanne Hartwig
(Chair of Romance Literatures and Cultures)
"Images of Female Aging in Contemporary European Theatre" critically examines the representation of women aged 65 and over in contemporary European plays, a demographic increasingly central to the continent's social and economic sustainability. This research posits that theatrical portrayals significantly influence collective perceptions of aging, particularly for women who face compounded vulnerabilities due to longer lifespans, potential economic disparities, and societal gender biases. As European societies grapple with the profound implications of demographic aging – including strains on healthcare, pension systems, and social support structures – understanding the cultural narratives surrounding older women becomes paramount for fostering inclusive and sustainable social policies.
This project delves into how contemporary playwrights depict the complexities of female aging, analyzing the persistence and subversion of traditional stereotypes, ranging from images of frailty and dependence to the often unrealistic demands of "active aging." It investigates the visibility (or lack thereof) of women in their fourth age (80+), exploring themes of loneliness, intergenerational relationships, elder care, the experience of disability and cognitive decline, and the assertion of dignity in a society that often marginalizes its older members. By analyzing a selection of ten influential plays from diverse European contexts, the research aims to identify prevailing trends and nuances in these representations.
Ultimately, this study advocates for a shift towards more nuanced and multifaceted portrayals of older women in theatre. By illuminating these representations, the research seeks to foster greater social awareness and challenge ageist and sexist stereotypes, contributing to a more inclusive vision of aging within European society.
