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How The Queen’s Gambit Sparked A Chess Resurgence

Eli London
Image shows a chess board [chess resurgence]

Eli London

Netflix’s 2020 hit The Queen’s Gambit not only sparked a chess resurgence but achieved what few thought was possible: it made chess cool again.

Just days after the release of the series, eBay announced a 215 per cent rise in searches for chess sets. Although chess has been around for centuries, the show managed to captivate audiences worldwide, blowing dust off the boards and propelling chess into popular culture through a narrative that transcended the boundaries of chequered boxes.

A Window into the World of Chess

For someone like me, who isn’t well-versed in chess, the game seems intense, stressful, and pretty confusing. The Queen’s Gambit did an excellent job of demystifying this somewhat intimidating sport.

That being said, I really appreciate those whose brains are wired for it. As the show’s protagonist, Beth Harmon, grapples with addiction and navigates her way through the chess world, I found myself learning alongside her and developing an appreciation for the intellectual challenges chess offers.

Breaking Gender Barriers

One of The Queen’s Gambit‘s most significant impacts has been the deconstruction of gender barriers in chess.

Historically, chess has been a predominantly male-dominated sport, with few female players making it to professional-level competition. However, it’s hard to dispute that Harmon inspired a new generation of female chess enthusiasts.

“Suddenly, it’s not weird to say you’re into chess”

The series showcased Beth’s journey as she experiences the sexism and prejudice faced by female players in the chess community. Her determination and passion for the game resonated with viewers, inspiring them to dutifully challenge the status quo. By showcasing the experiences of a female chess prodigy, The Queen’s Gambit illuminated the need for a more inclusive and equitable chess world, both on-screen and in the real world.

Clubs and online platforms have reported increased memberships and a surge in engagement, and suddenly it’s not weird to say you’re into chess. Nowadays, you’ll more often than not be met with intrigue than insult.

The History and Evolution of Chess

The show’s popularity has sparked interest not only in playing chess but also in studying the game’s rich history and strategies.

Chess is not a recent game; it has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. Its origins are pretty hotly disputed in the chess history community (yes, that is a thing).

Some argue it began in China as early as the 4th Century, while others have it originating in India as chaturanga. Dr. Lex Kraaijeveld, Principal Teaching Fellow at the University of Southampton, is a firm believer that the evolution and global spread of chess parallels that of biological evolution.

“Chess has long been known as a game of strategy, intellect, and competition”

Although there is evidence of chess-like games from the 12th Century — see, the Lewis Chessmen — it is thought that modern chess emerged in the 15th century. Chess has long been known as a game of strategy, intellect, and competition, and its long-enduring appeal lies in its ability to adapt and evolve while preserving its core principles.

Addressing Recent Challenges

While chess has experienced a renaissance in recent years, it has not been without its challenges.

The world of chess has faced criticism for its handling of issues related to gender identity and inclusivity. Recent incidents of transphobia within the chess community have raised concerns about the sport’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all players. It has long been the view in the chess community that “men are hardwired to be better chess players than women,” leading to some discriminatory policies that are otherwise outright contradictory.

Earlier this year, The International Chess Federation (FIDE) introduced new regulations that would effectively prevent transgender women from participating in women’s competitions until “further analysis” can be made, which could take up to two years.

https://twitter.com/PPSSPPemu/status/1707110905647865869

Chess, like any other institution, does have a loyal fanbase that works to confront issues of discrimination and bias. In Brooklyn, an inclusive space, “Queer’s Gambit”, is a staple of LGBTQ+ chess enthusiasts. The event has “adopted a ‘no mansplaining’ policy and encourages supportive learning over hierarchical competition.” It features bisexual lighting, the vehement belief that “pawns ‘r’ trans,” and heated matches until 2 a.m.

From the 6th to the 21st Century

There’s no question that The Queen’s Gambit has ignited a chess renaissance, captivating new audiences and rekindling the passion of those long-established.

As a non-chess player, I’ve witnessed how the show has transformed chess from a niche interest into a global phenomenon. Its impact on female participation, in particular, has been revolutionary, allowing women and girls to feel empowered to excel in a previously male-dominated arena.

Chess is no longer the game of old men smoking in dimly lit rooms or inaccessible world tournaments; it has become a symbol of intellectual prowess and a testament to the power of representation. The Queen’s Gambit has made chess cool, and its influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the chess landscape for years to come.

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Featured image courtesy of Randy Fath on Unsplash. No changes were made to this image. Image licence found here.

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