Magical things are often depicted as being white. Throughout history, across various cultures and mythologies, the color white has been associated with magic and supernatural powers. This association can be seen in literature, art, and even in popular culture. One possible reason for this is the belief that white is the color of purity and divinity, creating a link between magic and the divine. In many cultures, white is also associated with light, illumination, and enlightenment, all of which are elements often attributed to magical beings or objects. Additionally, white is often seen as a color that contains all other colors within it, symbolizing the idea of unity and wholeness.
This was the mammy caricature, and, like all caricatures, it contained a little truth surrounded by a larger lie. The caricature portrayed an obese, coarse, maternal figure. She had great love for her white "family," but often treated her own family with disdain. Although she had children, sometimes many, she was completely desexualized. She "belonged" to the white family, though it was rarely stated. Unlike Sambo, she was a faithful worker. She had no black friends; the white family was her entire world. Obviously, the mammy caricature was more myth than accurate portrayal.
Not until after Emancipation did black women run white households or occupy in any significant number the special positions ascribed to them in folklore and fiction. In her early films, for example The Golden West Grainger Howard, 1932 , and The Story of Temple Drake Glazer Roberts, 1933 , she played unobtrusive, weak mammies.
Additionally, white is often seen as a color that contains all other colors within it, symbolizing the idea of unity and wholeness. This sense of completeness is often associated with the power and mysticism of magical entities. Furthermore, the color white is also often associated with invisibility and the ability to transcend boundaries or exist between worlds.
The Mammy Caricature
Mammy is the most well known and enduring racial caricature of African American women. The Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State University has more than 100 items with the mammy image, including ashtrays, souvenirs, postcards, fishing lures, detergent, artistic prints, toys, candles, and kitchenware. This article examines real mammies, fictional mammies, and commercial mammies.
Again, these qualities align with the fantastical nature of magic. Overall, the depiction of magical things as being white serves to convey their otherworldly nature, purity, and extraordinary abilities..
Reviews for "The White Mage vs. the Dark Mage: An Exploration of Magical Morality"
1. Jennifer - ★★☆☆☆
While the concept of magical things being depicted as white may be seen as traditional, it is also exclusionary and perpetuates the idea that only white individuals can possess certain powers or qualities. This limited representation fails to acknowledge the diversity and richness of cultures and beliefs from around the world. It would be more refreshing to see magical beings and powers being portrayed in a way that embraces and respects different races and ethnicities.
2. David - ★★☆☆☆
The notion that magical things are often depicted as white is not only repetitive but also reinforces stereotypes of power and privilege associated with the dominant white culture. This representation overlooks the vast potential for creativity and imagination in showcasing magical elements in diverse and inclusive ways. It is time to break away from the outdated conventions and explore the beauty of magical creatures and phenomena beyond the confines of racial bias.
3. Samantha - ★★☆☆☆
The overuse of white as the default color for magical depictions feels lazy and unimaginative. It limits the possibilities for representation and alienates individuals from marginalized communities who rarely see themselves reflected in magical narratives. We should strive for a more inclusive portrayal of magical entities, where people from all backgrounds can feel empowered and included. Diversity and representation should be embraced to create a more dynamic and compelling magical world.