The Walt Disney Company, the host of Disney characters that we now know and love came into play soon afterward. With the more than eight decades that have passed it can be said that for most of us in this generation these figures were significant icons during our growing up years. Perhaps as a form of security blanket reminiscent of childhood memories, serious followers have succumb to collecting the plethora of materials of their favorite Disney characters. From toys to figurines to room decors to whatever memorabilia is released soon after as part of the media franchise, any true-blood Disney fanatic will surely have at least one form of collection he can boast of.
After some serious thought it becomes apparent that the number of Disney personages can be categorized into two groups, namely:
Human Characters
Captain Jack Sparrow from The Pirates of the Caribbean fame, Hannah Montana getting the best of both her worlds, Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez and the rest of the gang in The High School Musical, are just some of the latest additions to the growing list of colorful Disney characters that were brought to life by actors. In the animated form, favorites include, among others, the single ladies Cinderella, Snow White, Belle, Pocahontas and Jasmine in their adversities and adventures that lead them to meet their respective charming princes.
Personified Characters
In the literary sense, attributing human characters to non-human figures such as animals or inanimate objects is called personification. This technique is well-used in the Disney world starting with its (flag bearer) Mickey Mouse followed by Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto, Chip and Dale, Dumbo and in more recent years Simba, Abu from Aladdin, Winnie the Pooh and friends Kanga, Roo, Tigger and Eeyore.
Meanwhile Lightning McQueen and the gang from Radiator Springs including Sally, Doc Hudson and Mater of course are some of the many inanimate objects that were given life in the wonderful world of Disney. Along with Buzz Lightyear and Woody from the Toy Story and Chip, Lumiere and Mrs. Potts from Beast’s enchanted palace these folks are effective means not only of entertainment but of conveying the values embedded in these family-oriented storylines which Disney is known for.
These characters, human or otherwise, appeal to Disney viewers because of the man-like traits they exhibit. In one way or another, the anthropomorphic qualities they display mirror what the audience posses or what they desire to emulate.