Marge Simpson

Matt Groening by Gage Skidmore -retouch

Julie Kavner

Marge - Good Night

The Simpsons star

Marge Simpson is a fictional character in the American animated sitcom The Simpsons, which is one of the longest-running and most influential television shows in history. Voiced by Julie Kavner, Marge is the matriarch of the Simpson family, known for her calm demeanor, distinctive blue beehive hairstyle, and her unwavering support for her often chaotic family. The character was created by cartoonist Matt Groening for the Tracey Ullman Show in 1987, a series of animated shorts about a dysfunctional family that eventually led to the creation of The Simpsons television series in 1989.

Character Biography

Marge, born Marjorie Jacqueline Bouvier, is a resident of the fictional town of Springfield. She is the emotional center of her family, often providing a grounding voice of reason amidst the various antics of her husband Homer, and their three children: Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. Marge's character embodies the archetype of the American television mother, balancing household duties and professional aspirations with a mix of patience, resilience, and occasional anxiety.

Personality and Traits

Marge's personality is characterized by her patience, understanding, and moral integrity. She has a nurturing nature and a strong sense of right and wrong, often serving as the moral compass for her family. Despite her generally conservative and traditional values, Marge has been depicted as having a complex personality with various interests and beliefs that have evolved over the series' long run.

Cultural Impact

Marge Simpson has become an iconic character in American pop culture, recognized for her distinctive voice and hairstyle, as well as her representation of American motherhood. She has been the subject of analysis in the fields of psychology, family studies, and media studies, often cited as an example of the changing dynamics of the American family and the role of women in society.

In Popular Media

Beyond the television series, Marge has appeared in a wide range of media, including comic books, video games, and merchandise. She played a central role in The Simpsons Movie (2007), where her loyalty and patience are tested by the family's antics and the larger crisis facing Springfield.

Reception

Marge Simpson has received critical acclaim for her complexity and relatability. Julie Kavner's voice performance has been particularly praised, earning her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Voice-Over Performance. Marge's influence extends beyond entertainment, having been used in various campaigns and discussions related to women's rights, parenting, and health issues.

See Also

• Homer Simpson
• Bart Simpson
• Lisa Simpson
• Maggie Simpson
• The Simpsons episodes