Hyperreality and the myth of romantic love

I want to remember Disneyland with my childlike eyes - a dreamy fantasy world full of fun and happiness, however, after this week's readings, I am no longer able to see it the same way. This is proof that this class is challenging everything I thought to be real. I'm learning not to take everything at face value and instead take a step into the "the rabbit hole". I am learning it is important to question the media more. Not only did I question Disneyland but also this week's topic of the myth of romantic love. I have two teenage cousins who are Twilight fans and they took me on dates to the films. I enjoyed looking at both Disney and films like Twilight with this new, now obvious, perspective.



The myth of romantic love, as portrayed in Beauty and the Beast and Twilight, calls upon these virtuous, patient females to "tame" and "save" their monstrous men from themselves.
I got upset thinking about how I grew up wathcing films like these, which seem to be teaching young girls to be compassionate and patient with boys/men even if they are scared or being mistreated. Did I grow up believing subconsciously that this was my role as a woman? I actually had to sit with this question this week. This topic along with the Maclean's article on teenage girls that I recently posted, made me question why are films like these being made? Are we going back in time, or have we even advanced into being independent women who don't take sole responsibility for love and emotions in relationships and don't play the role of savior. I came to the conclusion that girls are not going to be damaged seeing these films, but, the adults in kids' lives have to have discussions with them about what the messages are. Girls can have fun with fantastical movies like these, but they have to learn how to interpret these messages early on so they don't feel like their role is to take care of and please boys.

Instead of avoiding the next Twilight film with my teenage cousins, now I'll be able to see it for what it really is and maybe our discussion will move from who's cuter, Edward or Jacob, to how it's best to not stay in a relationship where you are scared, hurt, or unable to express yourself, no matter how cute they are or how much you love them.

{Disney photo found here}