Based On Your Understanding Of The Various Social Issues Pre
Based On Your Understanding Of The Various Social Issues Presented In
Based on your understanding of the various social issues presented in "Guess Who's Coming To Dinner," identify and discuss four social issues evident in this movie. You must write a complete essay; effectively introduce the movie and the basis of your discussion; your discussion paragraphs must adhere to class standards; utilize evidence from the movie, using the time counter from the film, for one parenthetical citation per discussion paragraph; your conclusion must explain how this movie is relevant to students in a culturally diverse society who are entering an equally diverse career or graduate program, military assignment or life-changing aspect of life. Include a Works Cited page for this assignment.
Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
The film "Guess Who's Coming To Dinner," directed by Stanley Kramer and released in 1967, is a groundbreaking American movie that explores themes of race, love, and societal acceptance. The film follows the story of a young white woman, Joanna Drayton, who falls in love with a Black man, Dr. John Prentice, and introduces her fiancé to her parents. This movie not only challenges societal norms of the era but also prompts discussion on various social issues that remain relevant today. This essay identifies and discusses four social issues presented in the film: racial prejudice, societal judgment, family acceptance, and the social construct of race. Through analyzing these themes, the film provides critical insights into the societal dynamics surrounding interracial relationships and social integration.
Social Issue 1: Racial Prejudice
One of the most prominent social issues in "Guess Who's Coming To Dinner" is racial prejudice. Despite the progressive attitude of the younger generation, the older characters, especially the parents, demonstrate underlying biases rooted in the prevailing societal norms of the 1960s. For instance, when Matilda, a close family friend, remarks on her surprise that the couple's relationship is genuine and not a passing fad, it underscores the societal skepticism about interracial relationships (Kramer, 1967, 00:45:30). The film depicts how racial prejudice influences perceptions and attitudes, creating barriers even within families and close-knit communities. This issue remains relevant as racial biases continue to influence social interactions today, affecting opportunities and social cohesion.
Social Issue 2: Societal Judgment and Expectations
The film also highlights the issue of societal judgment and the expectations placed on individuals based on race and social status. Joanna’s parents, particularly her mother, exhibit concern about societal reactions, fearing the repercussions of an interracial marriage on their reputation (Kramer, 1967, 01:10:00). The pressure to conform to social norms can often hinder personal choices and reinforce discriminatory practices. The film illustrates how societal expectations can threaten personal happiness, leading characters to question their desires and the legitimacy of their relationships. This issue remains significant as societal judgment still impacts individuals, especially in communities where traditional views dominate.
Social Issue 3: Family Acceptance and Love
Family acceptance is another central social issue in the movie. Despite initial reservations rooted in societal prejudices, the narrative ultimately emphasizes the importance of love and unconditional family support. The characters grapple with their biases, but many, particularly the parents, come to understand and accept their daughter's choices. The film suggests that true familial love should transcend racial boundaries, as exemplified by the parents’ eventual support of Joanna and Dr. John (Kramer, 1967, 01:25:45). This issue underscores the ongoing challenge of fostering acceptance within families and communities, encouraging viewers to reflect on their values and biases.
Social Issue 4: The Social Construct of Race
Finally, the movie challenges the concept of race as a social construct. Through the characters’ interactions and dialogues, it becomes evident that race is a superficial marker that should not define individual worth or relationships. Dr. Prentice’s character exemplifies this perspective, emphasizing that love and character are more important than racial differences (Kramer, 1967, 01:50:20). The film prompts viewers to question the societal foundations of racial discrimination and promotes a more inclusive understanding of human identity. Recognizing race as a social construct encourages societal progress towards equality and justice.
Conclusion
"Guess Who's Coming To Dinner" remains highly relevant in today’s diverse society, particularly for students entering various professional or life-changing environments. The film highlights enduring social issues such as prejudice, societal expectations, family dynamics, and perceptions of race, which influence personal and professional interactions. Understanding these themes prepares students and emerging professionals to navigate and challenge societal biases, fostering acceptance and inclusivity in multicultural settings. As society continues to evolve, the film serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, open-mindedness, and the courage to challenge societal norms to create a more equitable world.
Works Cited
Kramer, S. (Director). (1967). Guess Who's Coming To Dinner [Film]. Columbia Pictures.