Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.15291/sic/2.15.lc.5
The Sweet Bonds of Society: Food Symbolism in Bridgerton
Jelena Pataki Šumiga
Abstract
Food has a vital role in a person’s life. It provides sustenance and ensures the proper functioning of the mind and body. It has also always had a social role in encouraging interaction and connection. Additionally, many religions relate food and eating to sexuality, as in the Bible or Kama Sutra. Both forms of food symbolism, communality, and sexuality are present in Netflix’s Bridgerton (2020-ongoing), adapted from Julia Quinn’s book series (2000-2013). Famous for being close-knit, the Bridgertons exhibit incessant camaraderie and deep emotional connection. This paper argues that the series often conveys their familial intimacy through food and eating. Moreover, food is used to show romantic connections and conflicts, such as when Daphne and Colin express desire for their respective romantic interests while eating sweets. Likewise, cherries arguably represent Lady Featherington’s daughters’ virginity. Finally, food serves as a powerful symbol of the social status and knowledge available to (wo)men in Bridgerton.
Keywords
Bridgerton, food, symbolism, class, family, desire, virginity
Hrčak ID:
335097
URI
Publication date:
1.6.2025.
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