Queer characters are those that do not conform to traditional gender norms and sexual identities in society. These characters often challenge or reinforce stereotypes, depending on how they are presented in different animation traditions. In this article, we will examine how queer characters have been depicted in various animation styles from different cultures and periods.
Traditional Animation
Traditional animation is characterized by its hand-drawn style and focus on storytelling. Many classic animated films feature queer characters who challenge stereotypes.
In Disney's "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937), one of the dwarves is dressed in drag, challenging societal expectations of masculinity. Similarly, "The Little Mermaid" (1989) features a gender-bending sea witch named Ursula who defies gender roles.
Some traditional animations also reinforced negative stereotypes about queerness.
In "Fantasia" (1940), the villain Maleficent was portrayed as an effeminate man, reinforcing stereotypes about gay men being evil. Similarly, in "The Lion King" (1994), Timon and Pumbaa were seen as homosexual, even though their relationship had no romantic undertones.
Anime and Manga
Anime and manga are Japanese animation and comics that often feature queer characters who challenge traditional gender roles. Some examples include "Yuri! On Ice" and "Gravitation," which explore same-sex relationships between male characters. "Ouran High School Host Club" features transgender characters, while "Tokyo Babylon" features a lesbian couple. These shows present queer characters as normal and accepted parts of society.
Some anime and manga may reinforce negative stereotypes about queerness. In "Hunter x Hunter," a character named Hisoka is presented as hypersexualized and feminine, reinforcing stereotypes about gay men. The show's creator, Yoshihiro Togashi, has expressed support for LGBTQ+ rights but still perpetuates these ideas through his work.
American Animated TV Shows
American animated television shows have long featured queer characters, from "Doug" to "South Park."
They often reinforce negative stereotypes.
In "Family Guy," Stewie Griffin is a baby who wears dresses and speaks with a lisp, reinforcing stereotypes about effeminate males being homosexual. Similarly, "The Simpsons" has included many gay jokes throughout its run.
American animated shows like "Steven Universe" have challenged stereotypes by depicting queer couples in positive light. The show's protagonist, Steven, explores his sexuality and gender identity without facing judgment or ridicule. This presents a refreshing take on queer representation in animation.
European Animation
European animation has been more progressive than American and Japanese counterparts when it comes to portraying queer characters. French filmmaker Jean Cocteau's "Beauty and the Beast" (1946) features two transgender characters who challenge traditional gender roles. Polish director Walerian Borowczyk's short film "Angelus" (1982) features a same-sex couple exploring their relationship. More recently, British series "Peppa Pig" includes a lesbian character named Penny Polar Bear. These shows present queerness as normal and accepted parts of society.
Queer characters in animation can both challenge and reinforce stereotypes, depending on how they are presented. Traditional animation tends to reinforce negative stereotypes, while anime, manga, and European animation tend to be more progressive.
Even these shows often perpetuate harmful ideas about queerness. It is important for animators and storytellers to create diverse and nuanced representations of queer people to help break down these stereotypes.
How have queer characters challenged or reinforced stereotypes across different animation traditions?
Queer characters in animation have been used as vehicles for both progressive storytelling and traditional stereotyping, which can make it difficult to pinpoint the impact of their representation on audiences. On one hand, queer characters offer a rare opportunity for media makers to represent underrepresented identities while also allowing viewers to see themselves represented in a medium that has often excluded them.