![]() ![]() Seuss Enterprises declared that it would no more produce six of the famed author’s books owing to racist and offensive images. “Parents, too, may look at their children’s book collections in a new light and maybe more willing or able to have important conversations about race with their children.In 2001, skeptics slammed “woke” culture after Dr. “Authors, illustrators, and publishers have once again been made aware of the damaging nature of stereotypical images,” said Brooks. Brooks said although the decision is theirs, the news coverage may encourage a deeper conversation. Wanda Brooks, a literacy professor at Temple University also agrees that the decision to keep Seuss’ work part of children’s learning curriculum is left up to parents and teachers. “However, this kind of critique depends upon the parent or teacher’s level of awareness and ability to communicate the racist underpinnings of such images.ĭr. ![]() “I think offensive literature and images can be used as a learning tool for students who are able to think deeply about the negative effects of these images and the unarticulated motivations and dispensations of those who create and propagate them, said Modica. Marianne Modica, the chair of education at the University of Valley Forge, explains that the images can cause children to adopt racist views unconsciously, but when used correctly the imagery can be used as a learning tool. ![]() Some of these influences were evident in his portrayals of both Japanese citizens and Japanese Americans.ĭr. In 1941, Seuss’ war cartoons targeted isolationism, anti-Semitism and racism, but like Cottom’s views suggest, Seuss’ work was greatly influenced by the prevailing culture. The list will change as I change, and that is as it should be,” said Cottom. “Race is a living, breathing thing that morphs across time and context and even our own understanding so the most important books that have shaped my understanding of race are tied to who I was at the time that I read them. In an article titled Every Work of American Literature Is About Race, Tressie McMillan Cottom, sociologist and essayist, tells to the New York Times that the nature of race continues to change. “As an educator, if it’s deemed offensive content towards my students or any students then it’s inappropriate to share.” Seuss’ books were offensive because if they were wouldn’t there already have been an outrage?” said Lash. “I have never realized or even noticed that Dr. Ivana Lash, a graduate student at West Chester University said she is willing to give credit to Seuss for his creativity as an author, but also respects the company’s decision. Very few, however, know Theodor Seuss Geisel -the German American political cartoonist and author. The surprise from parents and educators is expected since most know Seuss as the beloved children’s writer - author of Cat in the Hat, Horton Hears a Who and Green Eggs and Ham. The books included in the withdrawal were: And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, If I Ran the Zoo, McElligot’s Pool, On Beyond Zebra, Scrambled Eggs Super, and The Cat’s Quizzer. ![]() Seuss has been part of a social media dispute that doesn’t include colorful rhymes, but another discussion that mirrors the country’s current social climate. Seuss, has caused scholars to engage in a conversation about the use of race in literature.ĭr. The recent controversy involving renowned children’s author, Dr. Seuss first published Horton Hears a Who on August 12, 1954. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |