« On … on peut se reposer maintenant ? » :Foucault et les multiples subjectivités discursives de Spike

Abstract

This article explores Spike’s development via a Foucauldian perspective of power and discourse. Discursive power resides in networks of relationships which allow “subjects [to] freely call upon differing discourses … and therefore, play games of identity” (Herrmann, 2012a, p. 6). Second, it discusses the chip embedded in Spike as an internal, technological manifestation of panoptic power positioning him as a liminal boundary-spanner. Finally, it examines Spike’s use of “technologies of the self” to become ensouled.

Keywords

• buffy the vampire slayer
• spike (character)
• foucault
• technologies of the self
• panoptic power
• liminality
• chip