Classic Disney Princesses
Actors Kristen Bell and Keira Knightley have both questioned the themes behind some of Disney’s classic princess films (Snow White, Cinderella and The Little Mermaid) and whether or not they send the right message to today’s young girls and boys.
Snow White accepted food from a strange without question and a man kissed her without her permission.
Cinderella, well she lived a miserable existence until a rich man came to her rescue and whisked her away to a better life.
And our Little Mermaid Ariel? Well, she gave up her voice just to get a guy…
Kristen Bell has said she discuses these stories with her daughters, asking them to question the princess choices. Where as Keria Knightley has out right banned Cinderella and other such tales where young woman wait for men to make their lives better.
These comments have sparked a debate about where these stories stand in our modern culture. Do they stay because of tradition? They are only stories after all. Or, do we start making new stories with strong female characters who rely on their skills and abilities to solve problems? There are many people with very strong opinions on both sides. What do you think?