Myth in the Mojave

Not Your Little Mermaid Part 1 of 2

Catherine Svehla, PhD Season 6 Episode 115

Millions of little girls (and many boys and adults), fell in love with Ariel, the mermaid in Disney’s popular movie, based on a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. As is often the case, Disney’s version differs significantly from its source. Andersen’s mermaid is nameless, for example (and I won’t say more to avoid spoilers).

My version of the fairy tale follows Andersen. You may be surprised, moved, inspired, or disgusted by this story. You may love it or hate it. All and any of these reactions are opportunities to reflect on important questions with cultural and personal implications.

This is part 1 of two podcasts devoted to telling and exploring this story.

 

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