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Courage In The Help

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The Help (2011) directed by Tate Taylor, is an inspirational, courageous and empowering story about Southern women in the 1960s. It's the story of the help: the black maids of Jackson, Mississippi, and the relationship with their white employers. The central theme of the film is courage, and how the characters embrace courage to overcome obstacles and fight for social justice. Whether it is their ability to deviate from in-group norms, or overcome fear, courage is essential throughout the characters' journeys. In this essay, I will analyse the situations endured by the characters, and how they respond to these situations with courage. For example, Eugenia 'Skeeter' Phelan utilises her courage to empower black maids and overcome social pressure. …show more content…

Although the black maids endure such indignity, none will share their experiences with Skeeter in fear of being discovered by the town’s whites. Aibileen is among those who refuse, but one day at church the preacher exhorts the congregation to have courage and speak the truth. He states that, "Courage isn't just about being brave. Courage is daring to do what is right in spite of the weakness of our flesh. And God tells us, commands us, compels us, to love." (The Help, 2011) Inspired by this, Aibileen amends her fear and becomes the first of the maids to disclose her story to Skeeter. She realizes the danger that could result from her decision, but she embraces the risk and relies on her faith for guidance. Aibileen wrestled with just how much courage she would need to do what Skeeter had asked her to do, despite the "bitter seed" planted inside of her. The convergence of Skeeter and Aibileen is a result of the courage demonstrated by Aibileen. Subsequently, Aibileen muses to herself, “God says we need to love our enemies, it hard to do, but it can start by telling the truth." (The Help, 2011) Aibileen shows real courage—to live on after the loss of a child, to start her life anew, and the ability, even in her grief, to love so …show more content…

Minny is perceived as someone who stands up for herself, but she is also an abused woman. For example, when Hilly Holbrook fires Minny, Hilly ensures that no job offers are forthcoming from any of the other women in the Junior League. Fortunately, Celia Foote is euphoric when Minny agrees to work for her. Unaware of the unspoken rules of white domination and black deference, Celia shows Minny that not all white women are iniquitous. Celia's benevolence gives Minny the courage to leave her abusive husband. Furthermore, Minny becomes crucial to the writing of 'The Help'. It takes Minny to persuade the other maids to help Skeeter and Aibileen, for one, as her chapter in the book is critical to their safety. In the same way Aibileen overcame trepidation, Minny employs her courage to share her story with Skeeter. And Minny, though sceptical at first, comes to see the book as a positive change for the future. Selfless and courageous—Minny fights for what she believes in, even though she's well aware of the risks, and she protects and empowers her friends at the same

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