Beauty and the Beast – A Sociologist's Perspective
Although this story is entirely imagined, it isn't simply a fairy fantasy for children's enjoyment as it seems. Because, peeling back the exterior of enchanted castles, it is a profound tale with incredible relevance to humanity in the present.
For instance, the message of beauty - in the midst of a world where appearance is the dominant factor in people's judgment and is chosen over ability and character (which are mistakenly placed second), it is quite unlikely that people will take the time to become familiar with a being possessing an undesirable physical form. It is natural for us because it is the first that we see, and upon instinct we shape an automatic opinion of the person. Not surprisingly, we need fairy tales to remind us that there is more within.
The truth is – whether we'd like to admit it or not – the more beautiful have always had the advantage in society – with jobs, public approval, everything. Now, in that view, one might assume that the story has no significance, but it goes further! Haha!
The girl, correctly named Beauty, is flawless at both angles and mends the spirit of one whose heart is not-so-pure. This is a theme used in numerous stories, yet in this particular tale – where the protagonist's gentleness and compassion is able to wash away coldness, greed and conceit in the setting of an unrealistic world – has appeal. Beauty's sacrifice for her father's health and her family's safety is a selfless act that we would hardly expect others to do. However, looking past the supposed selfishness of people, we're forced to confess that it is very possible, even in the world at present.
There is a further reality in this fable, though an unfortunate one. Depending upon the version heard, there is the side character, another egotistical male who is just as beastly, not to mention aggressive, overconfident, and unintelligent in addition (i.e. Gaston from the Disney film).
Notice that of these two faulted men, the Beast/prince receives the "happy ending", falling in love with Beauty, and she returning the love despite his hideousness, while the other falls to his death in a blind battle for the maiden. He was not given opportunity to have his heart changed.
One could argue that he was too stubborn and proud to let someone change him while the prince was willing, or that it was just fate. Nonetheless, it is still an unjust ending. This is another problem with society today – why is it that the wealthy (the prince), somehow manage to receive the good fortune, undeserving or not? Gaston and the Prince were equally unworthy, yet the Prince is the one forgiven for his wrongdoings and given a second chance at things.
Concluding with a brighter point, Beauty and the Beast also suggests that just one person can change another's life completely by simple acts and decisions. This is our hope in society.