1.Compare/contrast the first & second versions of the opening song posted in the Orientalist Media folder in BB Course Docs. Why the change? What cultural sterotypes regarding ‘the Orient’ are introduced here?
2.Describe 1) the city of Agrabah (sound familiar?)& its inhabitants 2) the Sultan’s Palace (look familiar?) & its inhabitants. Compare/contrast the two. How does each exemplify “standardization and cultural stereotyping?”
3. Paired characters that act as “foils”* are a frequent device in literature and film. Focusing on physical appearance, actions, and voices, discuss how Aladdin and Jafar function as foils in Aladdin (think binaries). * a foil is a character who contrasts with another character, usually the protagonist, highlighting the opposing qualities of each.
4.In the Disney version of this very old story, how does Aladdin exemplify “the American Dream?” (social mobility, rags to riches, $$ success, etc.)
5.In what ways can Aladdin be described as “an Orientalist fantasy,” or in Said’s terms, “a Western idea of the Orient?”
