More than a year ago, I subjected myself to Twilight and was left feeling a little empty inside. But there was one thought that kept surfacing, reiterated by other people and echoing in my own mind. How healthy is the relationship between Edward and Bella? A lot of people saw glimmers of what could be an abusive relationship. That, in and of itself, isn't necessarily bad. If the purpose is to shine a light on the abuse so young women will avoid similar situations, fantastic.
But that's not the point of the Twilight books. This relationship is "sooooo romantic." Edward is "soooooo dreamy." Rather than warn the readers, "There really are jerks who wish to destroy their partners," young women might be learning that destructive relationships are the pinnacle of romance.
Am I overreacting? Maybe. I haven't read any of the other books past Twilight and I haven't seen any of the movies, so it's hard to judge for myself.
But I'm not the only one concerned. Through a round-about clicking of links, I found this post that elucidates my concerns so much better, by someone who has seen the latest movie:
What Do You See In Him Again?
Just a warning: this rant has a few profanities in it, so be forewarned. But keep this number in mind: 15.
Why is this held up as so great a romance again?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
1 comment:
I read Twilight because I am a fan of vampire books such as the Sookie Stackhouse novels. I haven't read the other books but thought Twilight was good because of the lack of sex scenes....
I think there is an abuse theme creeping through a lot of vampire romance fiction (and romance in general--- too many romantic heroes are at least emotionally abusive.)
I heard that the author of Twilight is a Mormon. So perhaps she is at least trying to portray Christian/Mormon values? If so I do want to support the author and not be too harshly critical.
Your point is a valid one, though. (I'm working on my own vampire novel--- in which romance, thank goodness, cannot rear its ugly head as my vampires lack any sexual impulses.)
Post a Comment