TITLE: Power to the Pretty: An Analysis of the Relationship between Gender Roles and Power in Disney’s Snow White

AUTHOR: Sarah Fantappié

CATEGORY: Mind

CREATOR COMMENTARY:

This essay is a commentary on Disney’s powerful role in the process of socialization as well as the themes evoked through its first feature princess film, Snow White. As a renowned and highly influential corporation, Disney has a responsibility to produce films that send positive messages, yet the messages evoked by Snow White are just the opposite, illustrating the dark side of power and the importance of ideal beauty. Throughout the fairytale, it is evident that beauty is used as a tool by the characters to gain dominance over the other sex. The idea that a continual pursuit of power is necessary to attaining a happy ending is dangerous, as it suggests that power, as a form of manipulation, is effective in achieving one’s desires. In her endless struggle for happiness, perhaps Snow White was not ethical in her approach to gaining what she always wanted. Rather than using wit and compassion, Snow White relies on her appearance to impact the thoughts and actions of others as she effectively gains power by asserting her influence over their minds.

ENTRY:

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CREATOR BIO:

Sarah Fantappié was born in Florence, Italy and later moved to the United States when she was seven years old. Throughout high school she enjoyed singing with the Varsity Voices Choir, performing in local events, and volunteering for Community Helpline. She now attends Chapman University as a freshman Vocal Performance major where she is actively involved in the Honors Program, Chapman on Broadway Club, and Women’s Choir. She also hopes to double major in Psychology. After college she hopes to either pursue a career in either music or psychology.