OVERVIEW

The purpose of this book, as the title implies, is to chart the phenomenal success of one of television’s hottest sitcoms: "The Simpsons." Not since the "Flintstones" and the "Jetsons" had America seen a cartoon animated family on prime time television, and they are finding this family to be a bit different. Like many other sitcoms, "The Simpsons" depicts a middle-class, blue-collar family that is less idealistic than the Huxtables of "The Cosby Show," while at the same time simply offers viewers a good laugh. The book explores the show’s roots, and offers hypotheses as to why the show is so appealing.

The first episode of "The Simpsons" aired on December 17, 1989, but in many ways, it began nearly twelve years earlier. Matt Groening, the creator of this electric family, describes himself as a writer who happens to be a cartoonist. Through a process that began with scribbling pictures of letters he would send home, he eventually decided to try his hand at cartoon strips for a local Los Angeles magazine. His strip was entitled, "Life in Hell," a parody of life in Los Angeles that soon became an underground success. It featured a crude drawing of a rabbit named "Binky," and a small cast of others who quickly became a means for Groening to humorously express his impressions of society. Today’s Simpson family also carries out this function for Groening and the show’s producers.

What has been the appeal of this show? The writers of Simpsonmania suggest that this approach on the family has offered a "blast of fresh, but sour, air." USA Today TV critic, Matt Roush, shares his view on this bunch: "They’re as sour as the Bundy’s (from "Married…With Children") and as likeable as the Huxtables (from "The Cosby Show"). You can’t beat that mix for the ‘90s." Finally, in addition to its newness, it remains a show that seems to resonate with viewers. The kinds of trials that the Simpsons face, though exaggerated, are typical of those we all seem to face: this seems to be its mass appeal.

QUOTATIONS

As much as the Simpsons want to be ‘normal’ and ‘popular,’ they just can’t get it right. (p. 36)

In each episode, there is usually something that hits home. You may see a part of yourself that you can laugh at. Or, there may be an example of the Simpsons making light of everyday, difficult problems. (p. 30)

In ‘The Simpsons,’ the only time the family doesn’t argue is when the TV has their attention. (p. 39)

…Most Simpson fans don’t study the show, they just laugh. (p. 30)

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION

1. Generally speaking, do you feel that "The Simpsons" offers a positive or a negative message concerning the American family?
2. How does the cartoon animation of "The Simpsons" affect its viewers?
3. Do you believe that the show’s success is due to the way it shows a family struggling (non-idealistic) or because of its humor? If both, which appeals to you?
4. What danger do you see about the show’s presentation of family relationships? What benefit?

IMPLICATIONS

1. Matt Groening’s material is characterized by a cynical parody of popular American culture. Because it is a cartoon, kids are attracted to the show, but do not likely understand its humor. Therefore, it is important for parents to determine whether the content of the show is appropriate for younger children.
2. Groening’s style frequently teaches a point by presenting its opposite. He might teach fidelity by presenting a look at flaunting with an affair, concluding that it is not worth it. While this could be helpful for a mature teen, will a younger child be capable of understanding this? These kinds of decisions need to be made by the parent.
3. Since Groening uses "The Simpsons" to humorously comment on popular American culture, it can serve as an excellent springboard for the discussion of the particular issue that is raised. Since the show already captivates its audiences, why not take advantage of this and discuss the particular issues it raises? This can help teens formulate and integrate personal opinions on various issues.
4. Talking with teens about "The Simpsons" accomplishes two tasks at once: it helps them form personal opinions, and it also teaches them the skill of evaluating what they watch on TV. Since much of the show is subtle and humorous, it offers an inviting challenge.
5. Communication between the Simpsons usually seems to be negative. Therefore, processing must include questions like, "How did you feel Bart handled his anger toward his Mom?", "How else could he have handled it?", and "How do you handle your anger toward other members of your family?"
6. When using any teaching or discussion tool, always emphasize that there is a standard to uphold. Strive toward wholeness, and use that model as the goal.

Jeff Miller cCYS