CO, on "Beauty and the Beast - You're a Cad "

One of the popular interpretations of Disney's Beauty and the Beast is not one of an epic love story, but rather one that depicts an unhealthy relationship. This was my first time watching the film, so without any feelings of nostalgia to distract me this was a theme that I definitely could see. Essentially the plot of the movie is: a woman becomes involved with a man who treats her badly at first but eventually, because of his love for her, becomes a better person. They marry and live happily ever after, Belle deciding to ignore every horrible thing the Beast did to her (and to her father).

The idea that one person can change another for the better is certainly not a new one, but that doesn't mean this method of thinking can't be dangerous. The problem is that the plot of the movie can be viewed as supporting the myth that love can turn abusers into good people. I think the song I chose to accompany my video (You're a Cad by The Bird and the Bee) is a good fit with this interpretation. The lyrics are told from the point of view of a woman whom, despite knowing the man she is with is has some less than ideal characteristics, decides to stay with him anyway in hopes that he'll change for the best.