Unit 78 -- Exercises

What is Copyright Law?

Copyright Law is the Legal right created by the law of a country which grants the creator of an original piece of work the exclusive rights to its treatment and distribution, usually for a limited time only with the intention of enabling it’d creator to receive compensation for their intellectual effort. They also have the right to be identified as the owner/author of the piece. Copyright Law covers a wide range of items, including Literature, Media and Broadcasting, Etc.

The current copyright act is; Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. Copyright Law is the protection of work that has been produced, hence forbidding others to copy and claim it as their own. Copyright Law arises automatically when a company, or individual, creates a form of work covered by Copyright Law. Without the consent of the owner it is illegal to; copy the work, rent or lend out a copy of the work, adapt the work or perform it to a Public Audience or Broadcast. 

What does Libel mean?

The Oxford Dictionary defines the word ‘Libel’ as the “false publication that is damaging to a person’s reputation”. It is defined as the defamation of written or printed pictures, words, or in any form other than by spoken words or gestures, as lies about people which could possibly harm them, their reputation or their careers. When taken to court the supposed accusation can be proved as a lie and false with the victim able to sue for damages to reputation. It the victim is proven guilty and what they are accused of isn't a lie then they can be disciplined.

How are female characters represented in Videogames?

In a industry where male characters are largely dominant female characters are often poorly represented and depicted as damsels in distress and romantic interests, and rarely appear as the main protagonist with little backstory and depth. They are often depicted as exaggerated and unrealistic, with over-sexualised features such as large breasts or backsides, and are sometimes given ditsy personality traits and largely emotional. However, in some games like the Tekken and Soul Calibur series they are often portrayed as strong characters and equal to their male counterparts. When given the main role female characters are often portrayed as “intelligent” and “resourceful”. 

A famous example is the lead antagonist of Tomb Raider: Lara Croft. In past games, Lara was given notoriously large breasts and skin-tight clothing which gave her a negative portrayal in media. In recent games, though, Lara has slowly been remodelled in each sequel by being given a smaller bust and made to look less sexualized, as well as given a backstory that’s more relatable and a stronger well-rounded personality that appeals to both genders.