How stereotypical heroes and villains influence youth today

Essay by azn_jJunior High, 9th gradeA+, May 2004

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Stereotypical heroes influence the youth negatively through helping to create the perfect image that only exists in fantasy. Youth have been tricked into believing something that doesn't exist. The ideal role model, which is the stereotypical hero, was created through imagination. People create such images for someone to look up to but the realisation of false hope can lower one's self esteem. A typical hero can be defined as a fantasized perfect being, having all ideal physical attributes. A typical villain can be defined as the antithesis of a hero, which is also a negative influence as they have evil and rude personalities. Films such as Charlie's Angels demonstrate the stereotypes; on the other hand Willow defies it. Using examples from these films, main messages, settings, characterisation, if any groups were absent or not and how these films support/challenge today's society's values will be discussed.

Charlie's Angels' main message throughout the film was that good always prevails over evil.

In this film, the heroes Charlie's Angels, defeated the villain, Eric Knox, demonstrating that good triumphs over evil. This positions the audience to encourage the heroes whilst despising the villains for their selfish and vengeful acts. This is a positive influence for our society today, as it teaches us that selfishness and vengefulness is not appreciated.

Good versus Evil is relevant in the setting of Charlie's Angels; it was set in modern times in the big, busy and cosmopolitan city. Since the society is created by different cultures, they have learnt to accept and respect differences. With difference and teamwork you achieve more than individually. For instance, when the Angels cornered the Creepy Thin Man, they used teamwork to conquer. The audience are positioned to understand that as an individual very little is achieved, where as if joined...