How to Read Donald Duck : Imperialist Ideology in the Disney Comic

Uncover the hidden ideologies lurking beneath the cheerful surface of Disney comics with "How to Read Donald Duck: Imperialist Ideology in the Disney Comic" by Ariel Dorfman and Armand Mattelart. This groundbreaking and controversial book, originally published in 1975, offers a critical lens through which to examine the seemingly innocent world of Donald Duck and his feathered friends. A *First Edition* of this thought-provoking analysis, this paperback edition is a must-have for media studies enthusiasts, cultural critics, and anyone interested in deconstructing the pervasive influence of popular culture. Dorfman and Mattelart, writing from a Latin American perspective, meticulously dissect the narratives, characters, and settings of Disney comics, exposing what they argue is a subtle but powerful form of cultural imperialism. They contend that these comics, far from being harmless entertainment, subtly promote capitalist values, reinforce social hierarchies, and normalize American cultural dominance. By analyzing recurring themes, character archetypes, and narrative structures, the authors reveal how Disney comics can shape readers' perceptions of the world, often unconsciously. This edition presents the original text in both English and Spanish (translation), making it accessible to a wider audience. It invites readers to question the narratives they consume and consider the underlying messages embedded within even the most beloved childhood stories. "How to Read Donald Duck" ignited a firestorm of debate upon its release and was even banned in some countries due to its critical stance. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to illuminate the power of media to shape our understanding of the world and to question the narratives we take for granted. While the book focuses on Walt Disney Productions' comics, the analytical tools it provides can be applied to a wide range of popular media, enabling readers to become more discerning consumers of culture. The authors, Ariel Dorfman and Armand Mattelart, bring significant intellectual weight to this analysis. Ariel Dorfman is a renowned Chilean-American novelist, playwright, essayist, human rights activist, and academic. His personal experiences with political oppression and exile lend a unique perspective to his critique of cultural imperialism. Armand Mattelart, a Belgian sociologist and communication theorist, is known for his work on media, globalization, and cultural identity. Their combined expertise makes "How to Read Donald Duck" a powerful and insightful exploration of the intersection of culture, ideology, and power. Explore the hidden layers of a seemingly innocent world, challenge your assumptions, and gain a deeper understanding of the power of media with this classic and controversial text. This *First Edition* paperback (112 pages, approx. 340g) from International General is a valuable addition to any library interested in media studies, cultural criticism, and the impact of popular culture. Delve into the dewey decimal classification [741.5/09794/93] to discover similar books on the history and criticism of comic books and propaganda. ISBN-10: 0884770036 and ISBN-13: 9780884770039. Published in 1975.