Parks and Recreation: Leslie Knope, A Woman's Woman in Government 

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Could you do a character dissection of Ben Wyatt? The most normal male character ever written? When I say he’s normal I don’t mean bland, I mean he’s not a goofball, a meat head, or a jerk, but a normal guy who reflects a lot males today, nerdy, hard working, loves his friends, fully supports his wife, sticks to his work until it’s done, and isn’t afraid to be himself. He’s the only male character I’ve fully identified with.

Parks and Rec was the rare show that made you feel really good after you watched it.

I feel Leslie is a prime example of what it means to be a Hufflepuff

Not only is Leslie a great female role model so are all the women on Parks and Rec. It truly was a once in a lifetime show.

possibly the best thing anyone has ever said to me, was my friend jackie telling me that i am a male version of leslie knope. it passes through my mind very often. i've worked in local, state, and federal government. i will soon leave my state job for the peace corps. whenever i'm discouraged, i remember jackie telling me that. i don't care that she's fictional. leslie is my hero. i'm sure jackie didn't know what kind of impact her statement would have on me. but it keeps me going. i'm so proud of her saying that. thanks, jackie.

To me Leslie Knope is not just a role model for women but a role model for everyone of any gender. She's not just a woman's woman but a woman of the people.

It really is a great show, about a woman who cares about her career without being cold/unempathic.

Chief Trumple: Leslie Knope gets as many favors as she needs. Ben: May I ask why? Chief Trumple: Because she's the kind of person who uses favors to help other people. This sums up Leslie Knope so perfectly. She's high strung and ridiculous, but she's the best person that you know.

Please do an essay about April's character growth.

"I've gone on record saying that if I had to have a stripper name, it would be equality." Oh my god I forgot about that line, haha I'm dying :'D

I am a 29 year old Dominican male who is also a combat veteran.... and I am telling you Leslie Knope isn’t just a woman’s woman, she’s just a great human being period. I can’t tell you how many times I got out of a fire fight in Iraq and watched parks and rec just to see knope remind me wtf I was fighting for and put a smile on my face

I love Galentine's Day. I love that it was NOT scheduled for Valentine's Day. So many shows have their "strong female character" celebrate an anti-Valentine's Day, inviting all the single women to support each other and complain about men. But this plays into the age-old trope of single ladies hating married/partnered ladies, plus a new trope of seeing women who settle down as "failures" of feminism. Galentine's Day (& Leslie Knope) celebrates women in every step of their life. Also, while writing this I somehow (???) thought about Tammy 2, and how she's an interesting inversion of the "crazy stalker woman" trope. I honestly might die when/if you guys put out a Ron Swanson analysis.

I've been waiting for someone to cut together and describe her and Ben's relationship for so long. It makes me realize how amazingly perfect they are for each other.

*Writers, directors and people in general, should LEARN from Leslie Knope's character how a female lead should be written and expressed through media / literature.* Not through overexagerated tragedy, not a princess acting like a tomboy, nor being a badass warrior that can kick any man down. Just by writing and treating women like any human being. An individual with emotions and layers. But never reduced by just simple act or quirk. Because Leslie Knope, is flawed, dorky, hardworking and inspired her own strenght through feminity and ambitions without losing herself onto it. She always want to do the right thing and cares about Pawnee. Likes eating waffles, believe in the goverment and tends to be overdramatic. But by end of the day, she is a human. Like any of us, with relatable struggles and emotions. *EDIT:* Wanna add another thing. Thanks by a comment. Females characters that are warriors, villains, lovers or friends, queens, soldier of any position of power or normal people thar can do wonderful fears are ALSO good female characters. My two cents, is just as long, such individuals aren't reduced by TV tropes, cliches or stereotypes, I'm okay with that. Just as this resume video says, not all heroes need to wear a cape. Sometimes, simple by working in a park deparment.

Oh ScreenPrism, you beautiful tropical fish, thank you for this video

I definitely think you guys could get a great video essay out of Ron Swanson and the really complex and unique class of male character he embodies and grows into throughout the show. His relationship with Leslie definitely can be explored more, too!

Please start a parks and rec series!! there's so much about this show that needs to be analized (the way they portrait relationships (romantic and platonic) the growth of the characters, how they deal with failure, etc) and also it's so much fun

Leslie Knope is one of the reasons I want to go into government work, she really makes you think about how the little things you do make a difference in the world. This show is so so positive and an amazing influence for everyone. I love it.

I love Leslie Knope, she’s always inspiring and with exploding positive energy. Need that in my life

I love Parks and Rec so much!!! So wholesome and funny. Schur does an amazing job with every show he works in

Ben and Leslie are my favorite couple from any tv show. I would love an essay analyzing their relationship!

One of televisions most inspiring women, as explained by some of RU-vid’s most inspiring women.

When the show ended I was so sad. I was amazed that it got better and better with each season. I can't remember any show that did that. I also said that everyone needs a friend like Leslie Knope because as committed as she was to the passion of government she improved the lives of everyone she brought into her life. The finale was the most satisfying finale ever to me because while I was sad the show ended it gave necessary closure.

So happy to see so many people are thrilled about this video. It just proves there're sooo many people out there who are truly good human beings and want to spend their time in this world doing good and being good to themselves and others. There are hundreds of great shows and then there's Parks and Rec. I remember the first time I watched it and when I got to the finale I instantly went back to watch the reruns. It's one of those shows (the only one for me personally, but..) you don't want to think that one day they would come to an end and you will no longer be able to follow on the life of the people you somehow got so attached to and became family or best friends. The characters live in you, and I'm not talking only about Leslie. I equally loved Ron Swanson and Donna and April and Ann. Oh Ann! The poetic noble land-mermaid. Who doesn't crave an Ann in their lives. A full-time nurse who magically seems to have all the time for her friend. I just can go on and on, on how much I love the show. Thank you ScreenPrism!

Just reminded me that I should do a rewatch.

"hear my womanly roar" andy + the smol boys: "ROOOOAAARR"

Amy Poehler did an absolutely magnificent job at portraying Leslie!

I love how you covered Leslie and Bens relationship but I’d love a whole video about just that. I’ve always found it so interesting that Ben takes a traditional female role in the relationship while still demonstrating male characteristics. He likes sports, and even punches a man who calls Leslie a bitch which is traditionally very masculine but he makes real sacrifices in his career to further Leslie’s which is traditionally what women do for their relationships. The switch the typical gender rolls but both and still masculine and feminine when they do so. It would be interesting to see a take on the impacts of that

Can I just say, that as a dude, I really look up to Leslie, and that those lines you used in your opening from P&R: "If I come on strong, it's because I feel strongly", are ones that I try to live by, so I just wanted to say that she isn't just a woman's woman, but everyone's person. I don't want her getting closed off, or me feeling like if I try to be like her, or try to mimic some of her traits, that I'd be coming off too feminine. I just want to be a good person who cares for people, and she's the perfect example of that, regardless of gender.

Oh I really can't describe my joy upon seeing a video essay on Leslie Knope from ScreenPrism

ALL of the women in Parks and Recreation (yes, even April) were fantastically written. What I enjoyed about Leslie, as well as Ann, in particular, is that they were just normal women. Leslie isn't some badass warrior trying to take down the men in government, but she's also not some overemotional stereotype. She's a woman who cares for people, and cares for her country. She loves her friends, she loves having fun, and she loves work. And despite the show featuring strong female characters, it never put down men in order to do so. None of the male characters were written as villains who hate women (although Tom's behavior at times was questionable) and everyone was truly equal. I wish the world were more like Pawnee, I wish more people were like Leslie Knope, and most of all, I wish more sitcoms were as optimistic and warm as Parks and Rec.

people in tv should watch how leslie knope is written and take notes. this is how you write an original and inspirational character without falling victim to the cliches

Thanks you! this is exactly why i loved Parks and Rec but didn't like the Office. There's a sort of mean vibe coming from the office while Parks and Rec is so hopeful!

I love Leslie Knope... When I grow up, I want to be her. I'm 35

Once again my eyes are opened by seeing things through a woman's point of view, thanks to Screenprism. Thank you, ladies!

Good god, I melted at the way you introduced Ben and Leslie's relationship.

You guys need to do more parks and rec!!! Specifically more Ann and Leslie I never got over Ann leaving it still breaks my heart

I’m pulling out this video in my next argument about why I think parks and rec is better than the office

When people ask me why I love Parks and Rec so much, I will show them this video.

Shout-out to Mike Schur for creating several highly successful comedies that accurately portray women as people with traits, not plot devices to the "funny man"!

Shoutout to Leslie knope for being one of the best female characters of all time😂💯

Leslie is actually one of the best female characters ever written. Heck, not just female, she’s one of my favorite protagonists ever. All the characters on this show are so well done.

The best thing about Leslie Knope is that she is a very earnest character without an ounce of cynicism! In today's world earnestness is frowned upon and is often ridiculed. If someone is being vulnerable or really earnest, that person is labelled as embarassing. Earnest feelings should always be hidden under a barb of cheeky sarcasm or caustic witty cynicism, because that is what is perceived as cool. Leslie Knope is such an welcome departure in that regard.

Leslie and Ben as well as April and Andy showed that a couple getting together doesn’t have to be a jump the shark moment and happy couples can be a part of great story telling and character development.

I hated season 1. I was just glad I stuck until season 2. Awesome series!

I just adopted a three legged dog and called him champion

I would love a video on Leslie’s relationship with Ben, how it’s the ultimate fantasy relationship for women. I would also like to see Leslie and Ron’s relationship discussed, because she loves Ron and Ron loves and respects her - even though they are different. She would do anything for him and he would do anything for her. Also! I would love to see a video on Leslie and April, how Leslie is April’s mentor (though Ron is April’s real support) and while April doesn’t want Leslie’s love, she ultimately accepts it and desires it. I know you touch on all of these things in your video, but it would be nice to expound on it. Esp. Leslie and April.

I share my birthday with Leslie Knope. 18th January. I was so happy to find out

Parks&rec is THE show that just makes you feel great. Leslie is the best

Leslie Knope is a great role model. ☺

This is a really amazing video so often when I think of my favorite characters on tv or in movies it’s male protagonists that come to mind but this really makes me remember how significant and inspiring a character they made at parks and rec thanks for that keep up the good work

You did a Parks and Recreation video on treat yo self day!

This video makes me wanna cry, especially the part about Ben, he didn't pay lip service he actually supported and sacrificed for her. Leslie Knope is wonder woman.

I love love love love how your insights are feminine and value-based; it’s so refreshing and heartwarming. THANK YOU.

I LOVE Leslie Knope! Knope 2020!!!!

Leslie Knope is legit my absolute favourite feminist in pop culture

You've just reminded me why I love Leslie Knope. ☺ Thank you!

I cry every time I watch the moment when Ann surprises Leslie in the finale. Every. Single. Time.

That's why I like p&r! It's warm, optimistic, and refreshing.

Do a Brooklyn 99 video, maybe one on captain holt? ;)

Yall are soooo great at character analysis it's unreal, probably my new favorite channel (:

Leslie Knope is the quintessence of what feminism should be :)

"Oh Ann's here!" *pushes Ben aside* hahahahaha

One of the greatest main characters i've ever seen. THAT'S how its done!

Ugh....so good...I needed this today. You just gave me an injection of happiness watching this!!

I honestly love rewatching Parks and Rec every few years because the show makes me feel so good and wholesome

Thank you for giving this amazing show some recognition . More of this please 💯❤️

i just love parks and rec! Ron Swanson is one of the best characters ever put on TV

I just realized Michael Schur played Dwight Schrute's brother Mose.

Wow they didnt change her personality, they just changed the people reacting to her, and she went from being viewed as disrespected to respected. That kind of shows that it's not always within your control how you are viewed. Sometimes it's really just the people you are surrounded by. You dont have to change yourself, you have to choose the right people to surround yourself with.

I've just finished rewatching Parks and Rec a couple of weeks ago, by which time I had already come across your channel and fallen in love with your beautifully insightful videos, and was wondering if you'd ever shine the spotlight on P&R characters. I am so happy to see that you have!

Leslie is my favorite. When Parks and Rec aired I thought, "Finally a character I can relate to."

Props to Mose.

Thank you ScreenPrism for covering my favourite tv show! Your videos are simply the best. Please keep them coming

Can't wait for the Jean-Ralphio Saperstein video!

Just cried through an episode of Handmaid's Tale....NEEDED this, thank you!

*Thank you Mike Schur, for Leslie Knope, for Parks & Recs, The Good Place and so many other amazing shows*

This is such a great video. Please do Andy Dwyer

Thank you ScreenPrism for this! I started watching Parks & Rec because my friends said I reminded them of Leslie Knope. Your video made the comparison the best thing ever, next to waffles, friends and work.

Crap why do I feel like crying, Leslie is easily one of my favourite characters, her positivity just makes me smile, I need to rewatch this series!

This is my favorite video yet! I love Leslie. We need more Leslie's.

"Oh Ann is here!" *pushes boyfriend out of the way to hug bff* 😂 I love this scene so much

I need more analysis videos on Parks and Rec characters! Also please do Brooklyn Nine Nine.

Finally a parks and rec related video essay loved it

I know this video essay makes me cry every time I watch it, yet today is one of those days when i come here again, knowingly i'll be balling by the end.

Holy cow!!! I love Park&rec and I love Leslie knope and what a phenomenal breakdown!! you please have done I really hope you guys continue to do more as special parks and rec and the office!!!

I love this this channel! Well done!

i cried when this show ended.. and im not the slightest bit ashamed. This was great.. very nostalgic.

Leslie Knope is my Spirit Animal, She'd be proud of the work you did on this video...

I was crying the whole time. Thank you for making this video . She is a gem

I love Leslie so much. This video made me cry. Thank you.

YES. this was SO GOOD. please make a video about Leslie and Ron's friendship!

You girls should do more videos about Parks and Rec!!! This one was incredible :)

This video was great! Would love to see more Parks & Rec content from you guys :)

Amazing as always, a fantastic video!

I never saw this series, but because of this video i felt like seeing it. Thank you ^^

this video made me so hopeful and happy. im just glad a character like leslie knope is out there because thats honestly the ideal. and this video made me cry goodnight.

this video convinced me to watch Parks and Rec. Leslie Knope the fictional character is everything I aspire to be in life, and I now carry a "Knope 2012" pin on my backpack to work every day

Brilliant video! Leslie is definitely one of the best written TV characters of all time and one of my favorites (and Parks and Recreation is my favorite show of all time). She's truly a role model for all (men and women alike).