Exploring the Moral Ambiguity of Antiheroes in Television

Television shows like House of Cards and Game of Thrones introduced a new wave of antiheroes - protagonists who did not follow the traditional hero's journey but were portrayed as evil characters. This shift in storytelling was influenced by the expansion of television channels, allowing for more diverse and morally ambiguous content. Shows like The Sopranos, The Shield, The Wire, Breaking Bad, and House of Cards depicted male characters who defied societal norms, often resorting to evil actions as a form of rebellion against a society that suppressed their masculinity. These narratives showcased how in a world where traditional masculinity is outlawed, only outlaws can exhibit masculinity, leading to the portrayal of antiheroes on television screens.

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