Thread by @LifeinFiction

Okay, so now that I've had a little time to sit with Netflix's #ShadowandBone, I'd like to talk about the way the writers used TV Alina's Shu Han identity in the story and world.

These opinions are my personal feelings and I may feel differently after repeat viewings.

First off, we're never given substantial info as to why the Shu Han are an enemy to Ravka.

To me, it felt like we're told way more about the conflict with West Ravka wanting to separate and become an independent nation. We also have a handful of scenes that explore this conflict.

But we're never given background on the Shu Han and instead we're left with several instances where Alina is the target of hate speech and general yet targeted racism/discrimination. Her entire identity is basically whittled down to her being mixed race.

It's mentioned her mother was Shu Han, which also doesn't sit well with me because it feels like it's always the mom in stories who is "different" and I don't like the implication that the mother/woman is at fault for causing the Otherness of a protagonist.

Despite having other characters who come from typically marginalized backgrounds/identities, Alina is largely the only one who is faced with discrimination on screen.

There are a few instances of anti-Suli sentiments, and this is also never fully explored. I know we only have 8 episodes and hopefully more seasons to dig into this world, but currently all these moments of hatred feel more hurtful to viewers than anything else.

It's also interesting that Mal doesn't face any racism or hatred despite him also being mixed race. The writers/showrunner have made it clear that Mal and Alina's connection is heavily founded on them both being mixed race.

If he's able to escape racism and prejudice because he's a man, then that's never explored or identified. Sexism doesn't come into play.

I love this cast and am so glad they represent so many of us, and overall appreciate the work the writers have done. I just wish we could have forms of media, particularly fantasy, where we don't have to live through the prejudices we live in our daily lives. It's exhausting.

Oh, and the maid's comment about Alina's eyes? Yeah, I was NOT prepared for that one and it hit me pretty hard because of how many eye-related comments I used to get growing up.

EDIT: I'm early on in my rewatch and Mal DOES have some slurs thrown his way, particularly in the flashbacks. Apologies for not remembering this before!