� I have already made several references to it throughout the movies that I analyzed, and
that is that DISNEY REFUSES TO CHANGE ITS GENDER ROLES.
Snow White is considered by most people to be 'acceptable' because her role in the film simply
reflects American society of the 30s. If that is true, then why does every other Disney heroine
assume the same role, 70 years later?
� Walt Disney had a vision for everything - his dream of a 'great big beautiful tomorrow',
and of course his stories about the average American family chasing the American dream are dearly
loved. In his perfect world he also created set gender roles. While female Disney characters have
become more courageous and outspoken in their roles, their clothing seems to shrink. The basic
female gender role is the homemaker, raising the children and doing the chores. The male is
expected to save the day (do the dirty work) and expects the female to keep him happy.
� Examine Snow White with Beauty and the Beast. Belle and Snow White are the same character.
Both dream of the day when a prince will come and rescue them, and both are forced into horrible
situations because of some form of jealousy. While Snow White serves the dwarves, Belle
has to stay and take care of the Beast because she does not feel right leaving, even when
she is no longer a prisoner.
� Comparing these films you would think that the Disney franchise is still living in the
early 20th century. The problem with this is that though social attitudes are changing very
rapidly and more drastic things are becoming acceptable, Disney continues to shove 'good
old-fashioned' values down children's throats, creating another generation gap. This is where the
principles of media are of paramount importance.
Part II: Inter-medium Gender Role Comparison
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