The Southern Stereotype Essay - 1365 Words

Long Live Southern Stereotypes Ever since Scarlett O’Hara struggled to find love and Andy Taylor was elected Mayberry’s Sheriff, filmmakers and television producers have yet to lose any fondness for stereotyping the southern culture. There are many who despise any form of labeling or stereotyping within the media, fearing false characterizations or inaccurate portrayals of southern customs, traditions, and people. Exposure to southern stereotypes through media is an appealing element in the American lifestyle that can render endearing impressions, contribute genuine metaphors, and provide viewers with a unique and fascinating (whether positive or negative) glimpse toward a regional culture. The mass media, or media at large, would†¦show more content†¦These are pointed descriptions, but they are true and the American culture loves (and loves to hate) the southern stereotype and it is here to stay. Now what about those who may have that southern stereotypical drawl? Southern accents do not make one stupid; being stupid does. Southerners should be proud of the southern accent. However, the media has managed to cause dismay among many southerners who possess the engaging and attractive drawl. Should a visitor traveling to North Dakota, view a Fargo native as stupid or ignorant because of the distinct accent heard there? Should a North Dakota resident ridicule a person from the Bronx because of the peculiar accent heard there? Somehow people are ashamed of their unique speech patterns rather than being proud of a colloquial accent. The southern stereotype will be here for a long time to come, so love it and embrace it. According to Jack G. Shaheen in his essay titled, â€Å"The Media’s Image of Arabs,† Hollywood producers must have instant kits that contain sunglasses, Arab clothing, tents, and mosques in order to provide a snapshot of Hollywood’s stereotypical Arab (99). Undoubtedly, the same holds true when depicting the typical southern example. Whether oneShow MoreRelatedThe Mind Of The South1115 Words   |  5 Pagescommonly held stereotype in the United States that those of Southern origin held a higher level of ignorance than those of the North. This stereotype likely stemmed from the rivalry that existed after the Civil War as a method of lowering the moral of those who seceded and fought for the Southern cause. The stereotype grew to the point where even educated Southerners perceived it as fact. One such Southerner was Wilbur Joseph Cash who wrote several pieces on the ignorance of the Southern people, includingRead MoreThe Immigration Trends Over Time904 Words    |  4 PagesAssignment December 11th, 2014 Region: Southern California Regions across the United States have been changed dramatically by the immigration trends over time. The region of Southern California is no different. When the people in an area change that areas culture is going to change as well, southern California is a great example of that. 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