Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Emerging Scholars

I believe the best book for Emerging Scholars is Black and White. I chose Black and White because it tackles serious issues, issues that these students have more than likely faced before. I have always believed that people enjoy reading books that they can relate to. Black and White deals with crime, betrayal, figuring out what you believe in and making right decisions. Black and White can prompt students to look at these characters (who had so much potential) and understand how small actions can make a big difference. This is something the Emerging Scholars will be dealing with: choosing schools, deciding to do homework, being honest, and standing firm in what you believe in. Decisions high school students consider to be small could possibly be viewed from a more mature perspective.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Hua Mulan

After watching Disney's Mulan, I definitely believe that it is westernized. Mulan's character looks American more so than Chinese, and then, when looking at the other characters of the movie, it's evident they have Chinese facial characteristics. Also, all of the men are made to be great oaf's in this movie. "A Girl Worth Fighting For" comes out sounding like the men cannot take care of themselves.
After reading the poem about Hua Mulan, I don't believe Disney would've needed to Westernized Mulan. The story is fine. I think it would have baffled young viewers if Mulan had acted the way that Ailin acted: Ailin was treated as a subordinate, and acted as such. Ailin knew her place, what she could say, and couldn't. Mulan doesn't portray that girl, and I think if Disney had explained that, it would have made for a more educational film. To see a girl be quieted after speaking up would possibly confuse young viewers, but by witnessing this, they could understand that it's a big world and not everyone has the same customs as we do in America. I think overall that Disney viewers are certainly more capable of a character more representative of the Chinese culture.