Snow White through the lens of gender, race, and culture

This post dives into the differences in time period from a gender, racial, and cultural standpoint.

Disney took the German version written by the Grimm Brothers and made it "peculiarly American" (Zipes 347). The different aspects such as animation style, character designs, the storytelling, and the humor are all influences that contribute to the film being "peculiarly American." The original story by the Grimm Brothers does not explicitly state the race of Snow White, but it can be inferred that she was of European descent and predominantly white due to the description of her pale skin. In Disney's animation we see she is white as snow with her black ebony hair, and with the knowledge of its origins it can be inferred that she is of European descent.

In the original fairy tale written by the Brothers Grimm, Snow White is presented at only seven years old. In medieval times, this was not uncommon. According to Lianne Blankestijin, it was not unheard of for noblemen to marry girls before the age of seven, though most took place when the girls were in their teens. In the Disney adaptation it is unlikely that Snow White was as young as seven, as Blankestijin describes that she was animated with "blossoming breasts" (Blanketijn, 20). Blankestijin also goes in to describe how Snow White is portrayed as attractive, shy, and dreamy insinuating that the prince will automatically be infatuated by her for these reasons. Disney also highlights the traditional division of gender roles by painting Snow White as happy while doing her chores, giving the audience the idea that chores are a fun thing for women to do.

The Brothers Grimm version of Snow White casts a light on 19th century Germany, reflecting folklore and storytelling traditions of the German people during this time. The German folklore presented themes such as the consequence of jealousy as well as kindness, which could be deemed as culturally valuable or traditional in Germany. The Disney version of Snow White casts a light on 20th century America, reflecting innocence and happily-ever-afters. The film included music, an array of imagery that was visually appealing, along with an uplifting feel to it. Both of these renditions used different cultural aspects as well as traditions that reflected cultural values and what entertainment looked like at these respective times.