TALE AS OLD AS TIME: A Textual Analysis of Race and Gender in Disney Princess Films

Abstract

<p>The Walt Disney Company has undergone increasing scrutiny for some of the themes found within their films; however no study has been done to specifically address the Disney Princess franchise. Therefore I focus my paper on the incredibly popular Disney Princess franchise, and the representations of race and gender within its films. In order to thoroughly examine the race and gender roles being promoted through this franchise, this study uses a textual analysis. This allowed for an in-depth consideration, where I specifically consider the gender roles being fulfilled in the films, mainly by the heroines, by examining the dynamics of the heterosexual relationship in the films, and I also consider how each film constructs racial differences. Therefore, through the use of a textual analysis on each of the nine Disney Princess films, I hope to have added to past examinations on the Walt Disney Company, considering how these widely viewed and circulated films may influence young audience’s attitudes, values and beliefs regarding race and gender.</p>