Disney’s Female Protagonists: Their Connotation with Modern Culture

Abstract

The entertainment industry in America and around the world owes a lot to the Disney animation and their movies. They have a great impact on children through many ways, not only through movies, but also through games, toys, accessories, and clothing. Disney’s presence has been around for more than 80 years, and during that period, they have performed a pivotal role in how our society showcases gender roles. Disney has evolved with our society as modern culture passes through various changes. Over the years its female characters have also evolved. The actual interpretation of Disney princesses is the hackneyed damsel’s anguish and very ordinary. This can be witnessed through Cinderella, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty. Another portrayal switched the roles of female protagonists as mutinous and go-getting. This can be seen through the characters of Rapunzel, Ariel, and Mulan. In the final phase, the female characters are shown as self-reliant and freedom loving. This kind of delineation can be seen through Anna, Merida, and Elsa. Disney is seen as a reflection of changing culture and changing times.