Abstract

As an examination of the portrayal of characters with disabilities in Disney animated feature-length films, this study examines Disney films through an ideological analysis, specifically with a postcolonial view. Disability studies, in general, focus on the separation of individuals with disabilities from society and the stigmatization, via stereotypes, these individuals face (Garland Thomson, 2003; Smith, 2007). By studying disability in Disney, this paper gives particular attention to the way the non-disabled characters treat the individuals with disabilities. It emphasizes the presences of stigmatization and stereotyping in four Disney films. Analysis focuses on four central Disney characters: Nemo, Quasimodo, Captain Hook, and Dumbo, all of whom display significant physical disabilities. Significant conclusions include unrealistic representations of disabilities regarding physical appearance, obstacles, and treatment by society. Also, there is a lack of characters without redeeming qualities, unless they are a supercrip, in these four Disney animated films.

Advisor

Moreland, Jennifer

Department

Communication Studies

Disciplines

Broadcast and Video Studies

Keywords

disability, disney, stigma

Publication Date

2013

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2013 Dana L. Feit