Friday, March 7, 2014

In Defense of Gaston

No one plots like Gaston, takes cheap shots like Gaston, No one persecutes harmless crackpots like Gaston.


First, let me say that Gaston was not a character in the original fairy tale. No, he is a construct of the Disney corporation intended to turn a parable with many shadings into a black-and-white fable.

As such, he has been grievously put-upon. His desperate seeking for love has been portrayed as barbaric, unbridled, oppressive lust for the beautiful Belle.

I mean, come on. Who hasn't had their heart broken by unrequited love? Of course he acts out just a little.

And I'm thinking that the term "harmless" in reference to Maurice is quite relative. Harmful to whom, I would ask? He's already been described as a "crackpot." So is he a danger to himself, to the community, to society at large? I invite you to consider just how far removed "crackpot inventor" is from "mad scientist."

And what about that Beast? I don't have to remind you that the whole idea of his being changed into a hideous monster was to reflect his inner beastliness. Here's a question. Are there any references in the Bible to the character of a "Beast?" Nuff said.

As for Belle? Can you say "passive-aggressive," boys and girls?

So next time you go to hating on Gaston, just remember there are (at least) two sides to every story.

How about a little love for the guy?

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