The "Princess" Complex

Before reading any further, I suggest you watch The Nostalgia Critic's latest video on the "princess" stereotype. As a long-time fan of The NC, I was really excited to see him make this video. So please go look at it and watch it, then come back here.

You watched it? You're sure?

The NC is right. Girls are taught to be the "princess" and not the "queen." And while The NC didn't want to get into the "why" debate, I do. WHY is it that a girl cannot want to be the "queen?" (to stretch the metaphor) Girls are instead still expected to play the part of the "princess"...it's okay to have some responsibility, but when it comes time to make a REAL decision...that's still left up to the man...the "king." Strong females are still looked down upon in society. Women in power are criticized for what they wear, how they do their hair, their make-up choices. "Oh, she's wearing the black pantsuit. That means she thinks she's powerful!" "Now I don't know why she chose THAT color lipstick with that dress!"

How are young girls supposed to have strong female role models to look up to when this is how those strong females are treated by our society?

Women in power...at least from the perspective in the U.S. (I cannot speak for the perspective in other countries as I am American and that's the only perspective I can speak on) are seen as a threat. Something bad. As The NC pointed out in his video...look at the fictional "Queens" that we have in mass media. The various "evil queens" from Disney movies and fairy tales, just to name a few.

It's sad to think that in a world where we pride ourselves on having come so far that these are the issues we still have to face.

I know I don't have the answer to these questions, sadly. And I am aware of how large and complex this issue really is. This is a debate that is going to continue for years to come.

But with new characters for girls to look up to...Disney's "princesses" are stronger and more independent than ever. We have female characters, actresses, and politicians left and right speaking out about the power of women and how being a woman is a powerful thing. So long as this trend continues... I think we could be heading in a better direction.

Just a few thoughts for your Wednesday. *steps off soapbox*