I can understand the first few, because basically they just stand there looking cute and helpless, but Belle (from Beauty and the Beast) seems braver, and more independent. (I'm referring to the Disney films, but if you have a comment on the original stories, I would be equally pleased to hear it.)
2007-01-17 02:13:28 · 4 answers · asked by Strange Design 5 in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Other - Cultures & Groups
I guess it depends on how you look at it. Most of them seem to fit the "Damsel in Distress" stereotype. Ariel wasn't particularly weak either, but then she had the ability to seduce men instantly with her voice, too (that is, before she stupidly agreed to give the voice up for legs. Seriously, there were other ways of handling that, but anyway).
Traditionally in stories, men were the heroes. Consider checking out Aristotle's Poetics for the way he defines a Hero.
One of the first Heroines that we see emerge is Socrates' Antigone. She didn't have all of the attributes that Aristotle associated with a tragic hero, but at the same time, she certainly was one.
Another factor could be the periods in which the Disney films were made (that is, before the sexual revolution) when women's roles were still quite limited, and they were still often seen as much weaker emotionally and physically than men.
2007-01-17 02:28:02 · answer #1 · answered by Souris 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
you are looking at the movie with modern eyes.
yes the movies come off as sexist, but you have to remember the times when the stories were originally written and produced for film.
It's the same problem with books like Huckleberry Finn, if you look at it with modern eyes the story comes off with heavy racist tones when in reality it was common speech and attitudes of the time.
So in my opinion, no the stories really aren't sexist, they are representative of archaic ideals but that does not detract from my enjoyment.
2007-01-17 10:37:46 · answer #2 · answered by Stone K 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
In general, all the older Disney movies were totally sexist. Belle at least was independent.
2007-01-17 10:20:35 · answer #3 · answered by ropemancometh 5 · 2⤊ 1⤋
GET OVER IT! These stories aren't sexist. You are just looking for a reason to start complaining about something else to help fill a void in your empty life. People like you make me sick. You are one of those that never wants equal rights, you want extra priveleges. Get over yourself.
2007-01-17 10:23:38 · answer #4 · answered by behr28 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋