Beauty and The Beast: Feminism and Chauvinism Essay Example

existence within the confines of traditional societal norms where men work and women tend to household chores and children. This male-dominant mindset is further accentuated when men only pay attention to conventionally attractive women and dictate orders upon female characters as if they were slaves. My firm disagreement lies with this particular portrayal, prompting me to believe that Disney should have exercised greater caution while depicting gender roles. Additionally, there exists a scene wherein a widowed woman with four children humbly pleads for six cents from an individual who dismisses her entirely. This serves as merely the initial instance among numerous others that shed light on the prevalent inequality experienced by women throughout society. It was only upon closely observing these secondary characters that I became fully aware of these disconcerting depictions concerning feminism.

In the midst of Belle's walk through a chauvinistic town, Justin suddenly emerges and takes hold of her book. He deems it inappropriate for women as it encourages them to have ideas and thoughts. While this comment might be expected from a stubborn political figure in the 1800s, it is surprising to hear in a children's movie made in the 1990s. Despite women gaining equal rights seventy years prior, this chauvinism still lingers. Although most child viewers may not perceive the film as such, those who recognize its feminist undertones would be upset by them. Adults tend to notice these unnecessary aspects of the film and feel let down by them. As I watched the movie and comprehended what was truly happening, I felt saddened that such incidents occur in an innocent film. This is just one instance among many examples of

feminism depicted throughout this movie; unfortunately, there are more instances as we continue watching. Later on, Justin rudely intrudes upon Belle's home and shockingly proposes to her. Despite the town assuming Belle is oblivious to Justin's proposal, he envisions a future where she tends to his feet while their children play and dogs roam freely. He desires numerous sons, but Belle rejects him and believes he deserves someone better than herself. This quote highlights society's expectation for women to engage in menial tasks and bear many childrenThe movie also portrays men in a disadvantaged light through characters like Belle's father and Gustan's servant, who resemble Maurice and Belle. These male characters are depicted as losers due to societal views on cartoons and movies. However, these stereotypes could be avoided if Belle's father was visually appealing yet peculiar instead of unattractive. Ultimately, the film teaches children that judging based solely on looks is wrong. However, it reinforces this lesson by depicting short and unattractive men as weak and at the bottom of the social hierarchy. The movie also reveals that the Beast, representing ugliness and grotesqueness, is actually a prince who was once spoiled. Due to his past selfishness, he must now find someone who will love him for his inner qualities rather than his appearance. Fortunately, Belle's father gets lost en route to the fair and ends up imprisoned in the Beast's castle. When Belle realizes her father is missing, she convinces his horse to guide her there where she discovers him locked in a tower cell alongside an encounter with the Beast himself. After explaining her purpose for coming, she demands her father's release

which convinces the Beast that she is willing to take his place. As their relationship progresses further, they develop a deep understanding of each other.Despite initially thinking he had no chance with Belle because of their different appearances, the Beast finds comfort knowing that Belle sees beyond his terrifying exterior and appreciates the wonderful man inside him. The story of Beauty and the Beast reaches its climax when Belle and the Beast, eventually falling in love, share a kiss that transforms him into a human prince. This moment serves as a powerful reminder to Belle that true beauty lies beyond physical appearance, emphasizing the importance of love not being solely based on looks. It is intriguing to note that despite her deep affection for him, Belle never addresses the Beast by name throughout the film. Furthermore, after his transformation back into a prince following their kiss, he simply asserts his identity without providing any specific details or introduction. This significant and heartfelt scene lacks proper identification.
Regrettably, Disney's depiction of women in this movie perpetuates inequality compared to men while also relegating all short and unattractive male characters to insignificant and disrespected roles. Such portrayals send a message to children that if they are overweight or unattractive, those qualities will define their lives. Although the film conveys a valuable lesson about looking beyond appearances through the character of the Beast, Disney undermines its own message by exploiting other characters throughout the narrative with repeated chauvinistic portrayals.I am surprised to find such disrespectful attitudes towards both genders in a Disney production like Beauty and the Beast.