CARTOONING EVIL: AN EXPLORATION OF THE ARCHETYPE OF EVIL IN CARTOONS AS PUBLIC PEDAGOGY

This thesis explores the dynamic evolution of cartoons as a medium of public pedagogy, focusing on the portrayal of morality, the changing landscape of moral narratives across networks or studios through time, and its intricate influence on relationships. Cartoons, spanning from the American classic era of Looney Tunes and Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! to the contemporary phenomena of The Dragon Prince and Miraculous: The Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir, act as potent agents of social education. Understanding cartoons as an accessible form of public pedagogy, this research examines the moral dichotomy of good and evil archetypes depicted in these animations. By analyzing the diverse approaches of networks and studios across time, this thesis uncovers the nuances of moral storytelling, revealing the intricate interplay of social values and creative choices. Furthermore, the thesis investigates the portrayal of relationships within these moral contexts, emphasizing the impact of animated narratives on societal perceptions of interpersonal connections.