So, I have tried to pride myself on filtering what my children watch on tv and dvds. Well lately baby bear has been in love with Ariel form the Little Mermaid, so when we get in the car she will watch the movie. Well Saturday I am listening to the movie and really do not like a lot of what I hear. I may be over thinking, but I dont think I like the message it is sending my daughter. This is what Ursula says to convince Ariel to trade her voice for legs [Ursula:] Have we got a deal?
[Ariel:] If I become human, I'll never be with my father
or sisters again.
[Ursula:] But you'll have your man. Life's full of tough
choices, innit? Oh - and there is one more thing.
We haven't discussed the subject of payment.
[Ariel:] But I don't have any -
[Ursula:] I'm not asking much. Just a token, really, a
trifle. What I want from you is . . . your voice.
[Ariel:] But without my voice, how can I -
[Ursula:] You'll have your looks! Your pretty face! And don't
underestimate the importance of body language! Ha!
The men up there don't like a lot of blabber
They think a girl who gossips is a bore
Yes, on land it's much preferred
For ladies not to say a word
And after all, dear, what is idle prattle for?
Come on, they're not all that impressed with conversation
True gentlemen avoid it when they can
But they dote and swoon and fawn
On a lady who's withdrawn
It's she who holds her tongue who gets her man
So, yeah sure Ursula is not the good one here, but just the general theme, that first she can't be happy where she is, that she has to change everything for a man and leave her life and family and give up who she is? maybe my daughter picks up on none of this and then again maybe she does or maybe it plants that seed? Just thinking....
4 comments:
I'm not sure where I stand on all of it, right now...Growing up we were never allowed to watch any Disney movies (I saw them all as an adult!). Sometimes I think that was a little strict...but then I hear things like your post and think it really is the best way to go. Guess I'll have to wait until that time comes to know for sure!
What a good mama you are to care so much to tear apart what others don't even bat an eye at!
That was my daughter's favorite movie. I seriously just sang that song when I was reading it :-| She is almost 12(?!?!!!) and is perfectly fine about boys and her self worth. It's all about how you raise your daughter. If you raise her to be strong and a wonderful young woman, then she will be! TV only influences them so much, you and the women in her life, SO much more! Hope that helps a little. You're doing a GREAT job!
So true how we take for granted the messages that "cartoon" movies and shows may be sending. Until we realize how tiny ears may be listening!
What a wonderful mom to be thinking of this...hope you figure out what to do!
I LOVE Disney movies, and the Little Mermaid is one of my favorites. I think that what you do and say will teach her a lot better than a movie will.
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