Disney and Disability

Argumentative Essay # 98243

Communication > Mass Media
Film > Analysis, Criticism, Etc.
Psychology > Child and Adolescent

This paper provides a critical examination of Walt Disney's work and disability issues.

1,941 words () | 8 sources | MLA | 2007 France

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that there have been many studies concerning the moralistic and cultural values portrayed within Disney movies, mainly in the areas of racism and sexism, which have resulted in divided opinions among researchers. However, the writer points out that very limited research has been conducted concerning the way that Disney treats disability issues. This essay considers this subject, through a critical analysis of certain animated Disney movies. First, the paper considers the subject's contextual frame, reflecting on the importance of the evaluation of children's viewing and how children are affected by what they watch. The essay then considers the portrayal of different characters in 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs', 'Dumbo', 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' and 'Finding Nemo', deliberating on characterization and perceived attitudes towards disability issues.

Outline:
Introduction
But it's Just a Cartoon
Looking Inside the Mouse
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Over the past seventy years Disney has released hundreds of movies, and cartoons, which address difficult issues pertinent to modern society. Dealing with what it feels like to have to cope with the death of a parent; to have a step-mother that is wicked; to live with a family that is not your own; to be physically abused and/or cruelly treated; the difficulties of having to live with an emotional or physical disability; what it's like to be poor, discriminated against, or to be visibly different from those around you; are all subjects that Disney has tried to tackle to some extent or another since its first conception."

Sample of Sources Used:

Because Films Matter, Online Article, 2007 <http://www.bfi.org.uk/education/teaching/disability/further/negative.html>
Brent Hardin, Missing in Action? Images of Disabilities in Sports, 2007< www.dsq-sds.org/_articles_pdf/2001/Spring/dsq_2001_Spring_04.pdf>
Chyng Sun, Miguel, Mickey Mouse Monopoly: Disney, Childhood, and Corporate Power, On-line Article, 2007, <www.mediaed.org/videos/CommercialismPoliticsAndMedia/MickeyMouseMonopoly/studyguide/MickeyMouseMonopoly.pdf>
Kay E. Vandergrift, Online Article, Criticisms of Snow White, 2007 < www.scils.rutgers.edu/~kvander/swcriticism.html - 40k>
Michael Berube, Online Article, 2007 <http://www.michaelberube.com/index.php/weblog/comments/537>