Joan Holloway and Megan Draper: relationship profile

Joan Holloway and Megan Draper are two complex and captivating characters in the hit TV series Mad Men. While they may come from different backgrounds and hold different positions in the workplace, their relationship within the show is incredibly interesting to dissect. By examining their individual complexities, we can better understand how they illuminate each other's psychology.Joan Holloway, played by the brilliant Christina Hendricks, is introduced as the office manager at Sterling Cooper. She exudes confidence and exquisiteness, seducing both the characters within the show and the viewers watching at home. Joan is depicted as a woman who knows her worth and isn't afraid to demand it. She is also entrenched in the male-dominated world of the 1960s, utilizing her sexuality as a means to climb the corporate ladder.On the other hand, we have Megan Draper, portrayed by Jessica Paré, who starts off as Don Draper's secretary and later becomes his second wife. Megan is a breath of fresh air; she is young, ambitious, and represents the changing times of the 1960s. Unlike Joan, Megan is not afraid of taking risks and pursuing her dreams. She aspires to be an actress and is unapologetically passionate about her career aspirations.While Joan and Megan occupy different spaces in Mad Men's workplace, their juxtaposition highlights the contrast between traditional femininity and the emerging feminist movement. Joan, in her tightly fitted dresses and red lipstick, embodies the archetypal image of the alluring and powerful woman. Megan, on the other hand, symbolizes the shifting societal attitudes towards women's independence, with her desire to break free from the confines of traditional expectations.But what connects these two characters on a deeper level is their shared awareness of the male gaze in their lives. Joan, being a woman who plays to this gaze, is acutely aware of how she is perceived by men and uses it to her advantage. Megan, however, rejects the notion of being objectified and strives to be seen as more than just a pretty face.This divergence in their approaches to the male gaze leads to fascinating dynamics within their relationship. Joan, initially skeptical of Megan, sees her as a threat - a younger, more vivacious woman who could potentially overshadow her. Megan's modern perspective challenges Joan's traditional way of navigating the world. Joan, in turn, feels resentful towards Megan's audacity to defy societal norms, which she herself has had to succumb to.Yet, as the series progresses, we witness a nuanced evolution in their relationship. Instead of seeing each other as adversaries, they begin to empathize with one another. Joan starts to understand Megan's desire for independence and growth, recognizing the limitations she has faced as a woman in the workplace. Similarly, Megan begins to appreciate Joan's strength and resilience, acknowledging the sacrifices she has made to reach her position of power.Their evolving connection becomes even more apparent when Megan encounters difficulties in her acting career. Joan, aware of the challenges women face in pursuing their dreams, offers her guidance and support. This display of solidarity represents a profound shift in their relationship, as it demonstrates a newfound respect and understanding between the two characters.In the end, while Joan and Megan may appear to be vastly different characters, their journey throughout the series allows them to illuminate each other's psychology. Joan's traditional approach and Megan's progressive ideals clash, but they also learn from one another and grow individually as a result of their connection. Their bond showcases the complexity of female relationships in a patriarchal society and sheds light on the various paths women navigate in the pursuit of success and fulfillment.In conclusion, Mad Men's Joan Holloway and Megan Draper are two compelling characters whose relationship offers a captivating exploration of femininity and womanhood in the 1960s. Joan represents the traditional, powerful woman, while Megan embodies the changing times and the pursuit of personal and professional independence. Through their connection, they challenge and inform each other's perspectives, ultimately highlighting the complex journey of women navigating a male-dominated society. Their journey serves as a reminder of the importance of female solidarity and understanding, even in the face of differing experiences and ideologies.