So, as odd as it may sound, after our little discussion on cartoons and whether they allow for stereotypes to be used, I decided to take a look at the old shows I used to watch when I was younger. The two shows that really stood out after my search were Rugrats, and Power Rangers.
Of the first show there was no openly obvious race stereotypes at first, but then there was the openly obvious bickering Jewish grandparents of Tommy Pickles. Mentioning of saving money and the neurotic Jewish woman was all through out the episodes that they were there. The next stereotype that popped out was Susie(sp?). She was the one African-American girl that was introduced to the series. She was right off the bat naturally talented in music (hip hopish), but that was as far of an extent that she was part of the stereotype.
As for Power Rangers the racism was a little more subtle. The costumes were what hinted towards it. The Asian ranger was yellow and the African-American one was black. Of course later in the show a white ranger was introduced and he was stronger than all the others, seems to have a little bit of a white supremecy undertone... maybe? This is purely speculation.
I never thought of the power-rangers that way. And yes I totally see the other connections you have made concerning The Rugrats as well. Nice insight. My favorite ranger Pink ranger. :)
ReplyDeleteI agree with the power rangers...ahhhhhhhh. The red ranger was always white, had the most power, was in control of everyone else, had the most responsibility, and the best fighting skills. It's a shame.
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