The Representation of Whiteness Ideology in Rick Riordan's The Heroes of Olympus

Abstract

This research delves into an exploration of racial dynamics within the popular young adult book series The Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan through the lens of Stuart Hall's theory of representation. Stuart Hall's theory of representation serves as the theoretical framework, providing a conceptual basis for deciphering how meaning is produced and disseminated within the narrative. The study aims to unpack the various layers of representation in the text, considering not only explicit portrayals of whiteness but also the subtle nuances and implicit messages that contribute to the construction of racial identities within the novels. To accomplish this analysis, the researcher adopts a qualitative research methodology. There are two categories of data. The primary data are taken directly from Rick Riordan’s The Heroes of Olympus novel series which consists of The Lost Hero, The Son of Neptune, The Mark of Athena, The House of Hades, and The Blood of Olympus. The secondary data are taken from documents with related topic regarding the topic of discussion. The problem formulation involves two key questions that serve as the focal points of the research discussion. The first question explores the representation of whiteness in the novel series, while the second question delves into the author's critical position concerning whiteness. It is found that the whiteness within the novels is created and maintained into four structures: whiteness as terror and supremacy, whiteness as a kind of absence, whiteness as values, norms and cultural capital and whiteness as contingent hierarchies. The author of the novel series, Rick Riordan, may inadvertently reinforces dynamics of whiteness ideology in his handling of diversity, wherein white perspectives is given priority. The reluctance to address and rectify issues of representation signals inconsistencies in Riordan’s commitment to fostering inclusivity.