Enchanted Bodies: The Disney Beauty Standard Through the Ages

In celebration of The Walt Disney Studio’s 101st anniversary—since its founding on October 16, 1923—this symposium, “Enchanted Bodies: The Disney Beauty Standard Through the Ages,” is part of the seminar “The Beauty Myth: Corporeality and Cultural Ideals in Disney Films.” This event invites scholars and students to examine how Disney animations have shaped and reflected evolving beauty standards over the decades through the lenses of perception, episteme, aesthetics, and politics.

The discussion will track how beauty is portrayed in Disney films, from classic princesses like Snow White and Cinderella, whose delicate, symmetrical features established early aesthetic norms, to contemporary characters such as Moana, Mirabel, or Asha, who present a wider array of beauty ideals. Panelists will explore how these evolving depictions both reflect and influence cultural values around race, body type, and gender, addressing how perception of physical appearance often aligns with moral judgments in these narratives. A significant focus will be on the dichotomy between heroes and villains, whose contrasting physical traits reinforce traditional beauty and moral standards, while revealing the political undertones of representation.

By analyzing changes in animation style, character design, and storytelling, the symposium will highlight Disney’s role in upholding and challenging societal norms. Topics will include the impact of Disney’s beauty standards on children’s self-esteem, the intersection of race and beauty in character design, and how recent films are shifting the episteme of beauty. The symposium aims to deepen our understanding of how animated media shapes cultural perceptions of beauty, morality, and identity.

Event registration form: https://forms.gle/A2w4HZYESQWgMFGi9