Final answer:
The main female characters in Red-Headed Woman and Baby Face were controversial for challenging traditional American values and portraying sexually liberated women. These films are important in shaping the portrayal of women in Hollywood and offer a historical perspective on the societal norms of the time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main female characters in the films Red-Headed Woman and Baby Face were controversial at the time because they challenged traditional American values and portrayed women as sexually liberated and independent. In Red-Headed Woman, the protagonist uses her sexuality to manipulate and control men, which was seen as immoral. In Baby Face, the main character uses her sexuality to climb the social ladder, engaging in relationships with multiple men for personal gain. These portrayals of women as sexually empowered and willing to exploit their sexuality for personal gain were considered scandalous during the time they were released.
These two films and their main female characters have enduring value for us today because they played a significant role in shaping the portrayal of women in Hollywood and challenging traditional gender stereotypes. They were among the first films to depict women as independent and sexually assertive, paving the way for future female characters in cinema. Additionally, they offer a historical perspective on the societal norms and attitudes towards women during the early 20th century.