Marie Calvet: Mad Men character profile

Mad Men, the critically acclaimed period drama set in the world of 1960s advertising, is filled with complex and multifaceted characters. Among them is Marie Calvet, the enigmatic mother of Megan Draper, who appears throughout the series in a few key episodes. While her screen time may be limited, Marie's impact on the narrative and the themes of the show cannot be overlooked.Marie Calvet, portrayed by Julia Ormond, makes her first appearance in Season 4 when Megan brings her home to meet Don Draper and his children. Instantly, Marie stands apart from the other characters in the show. She is a French-Canadian, with a thick accent and a European charm that captivates those around her. But beneath her alluring exterior, Marie is a complex figure grappling with her own desires, cultural expectations, and the shifting gender dynamics of the era.From a theoretical perspective, Marie can be seen as a representation of the "Other" - a term used in postcolonial studies to describe those who are different or marginalized in relation to dominant cultures. Marie's foreignness, both in terms of her nationality and her personality, sets her apart from the predominantly American characters of Mad Men. This Otherness allows for exploration of themes such as cultural tensions, assimilation, and the dissonance between traditional and modern values.Throughout the series, Marie embodies a certain duality that adds depth to her character. On the one hand, she is a seemingly traditional French housewife, devoted to cooking, cleaning, and taking care of her family. Yet, on the other hand, she is vivacious, flirtatious, and unafraid to challenge societal norms. This contrast between the expected and the unexpected creates a tension that allows the character to transcend stereotypes and become a symbol of female agency.Marie's presence in the world of Mad Men serves as a commentary on the broader social changes happening during the 1960s. Her character humanizes the ideals of the feminist movement, depicting a woman struggling to reconcile her desires for independence and self-expression with the expectations placed upon her by society. In this sense, Marie becomes a lens through which we can understand the complex negotiations of gender and power that defined the era.Additionally, Marie's relationship with her daughter Megan further highlights the generational divide and the clash between traditional and progressive values. Megan, a modern and ambitious woman, embodies the changing roles and aspirations of women in the '60s. Her interactions with Marie reflect the tensions between these generations, as they navigate the blurred lines between tradition, rebellion, and personal fulfillment.Marie's character arc reaches its peak in Season 7, when she confronts her daughter about the flaws in her marriage to Don. This pivotal scene not only showcases Marie's perceptiveness and emotional depth but also demonstrates her growth and transformation as a character. Marie's journey throughout the series serves as a reminder that even in a male-centric narrative, the women of Mad Men are not mere accessories but multifaceted individuals with their own agency and desires.In conclusion, Marie Calvet is a fascinating character in Mad Men, serving as a representation of the Other and a catalyst for exploring themes of cultural tension, gender dynamics, and societal change. Her journey throughout the series offers a glimpse into the complexities of 1960s America and the challenges faced by women in an evolving world. Marie's character exemplifies the nuanced storytelling that has made Mad Men an enduring masterpiece of television.