How do you feel about Brer Rabbit’s tendency to use trickery to get out of trouble?
- I admire his cleverness! He has to use what he’s got to survive.
- It’s a little morally ambiguous, but also undeniably entertaining.
- I think he should try being more honest!
What’s your favorite Uncle Remus story and why?
- “The Tar-Baby” – it’s a classic for a reason!
- “Brer Rabbit and the Butter” – I love how he outsmarts them all.
- “The Crawfish and the Deluge” – it’s a powerful story about the importance of listening to everyone.
What makes you nervous about the conflicts between Brer Rabbit and Brer Fox?
- I’m always worried Brer Rabbit will get caught!
- I know it’s inevitable Brer Fox will try something sneaky again.
- The potential for violence makes me anxious, even if it’s a children’s story.
What makes you most frustrated about Brer Fox’s actions?
- He never learns his lesson!
- He’s so driven by greed and it always backfires.
- He can be downright cruel sometimes.
What are you most excited about when diving into an Uncle Remus story?
- The clever wordplay and use of dialect.
- Seeing what kind of trouble Brer Rabbit will get into (and out of).
- Learning more about Southern folklore and tradition.
What do you dream about when it comes to adapting Uncle Remus tales for a modern audience?
- I want to see a really well-done animated film that captures the spirit of the stories.
- A TV series that explores the characters and themes in more depth would be amazing.
- I think a stage musical could be incredible, with catchy songs and vibrant costumes.
When you think about the lessons in Uncle Remus tales, what comes to mind?
- The importance of being resourceful and using your wits to overcome challenges.
- The power of storytelling and passing down traditions through generations.
- The complexities of race, power, and social justice, even in seemingly simple stories.
What’s your favorite example of Brer Rabbit using his cunning?
- Definitely when he tricks Brer Fox into getting stuck in the tar.
- When he convinces all the other animals he has a riding-horse, that one gets me every time.
- I love how he outsmarts Brer Fox and Brer Bear to keep all the butter for himself.
When you were a kid, how did you first encounter the Uncle Remus stories?
- My grandparents read them to me.
- We had a beautifully illustrated book of the tales.
- I actually discovered them much later, as an adult!
You have a choice of spending an afternoon listening to Uncle Remus stories or exploring the plantation, which do you choose?
- I’m captivated by stories, so definitely spending time with Uncle Remus.
- I’m more hands-on, so I’d choose to explore the plantation and imagine myself back in time.
- Tough choice! Maybe I can do a bit of both?
A specific situation arises where you need to use your wits to get out of a bind, how do you channel your inner Brer Rabbit?
- I’d try to think several steps ahead and anticipate the consequences of my actions.
- I would use humor and charm to disarm the situation.
- Honestly, I’d probably panic! I’m not nearly as clever as Brer Rabbit.
What keeps you up at night about the portrayal of race and culture in Uncle Remus tales?
- It’s important to acknowledge the problematic aspects of the dialect and stereotypes.
- We need to have nuanced conversations about how to appreciate the stories while being mindful of their historical context.
- I believe we can learn from the stories and use them as a springboard for important discussions.
Which of these Uncle Remus characters would you enjoy spending a day with the most?
- Brer Rabbit, of course! I’d love to see his tricks firsthand.
- Uncle Remus, he seems so wise and full of stories.
- Miss Meadows and the Girls, they seem like they’d be fun to gossip with.
When you think about Uncle Remus himself, what are you most concerned about?
- His portrayal as a stereotypical “happy slave” is troubling.
- I’m interested in exploring his wisdom and agency within the limitations of his circumstances.
- He represents a complex and often overlooked perspective on history.
What aspect of Uncle Remus Tales makes you the most happy?
- The humor and cleverness of the stories are just delightful.
- I appreciate the way they preserve a unique part of Southern culture and folklore.
- They remind me of my own childhood and reading these stories with family.
What is most likely to make you feel down about the legacy of Uncle Remus?
- The way his character has been used to perpetuate harmful stereotypes is disheartening.
- It’s sad that some people can’t see past the problematic aspects to appreciate the stories themselves.
- It’s a reminder of how much work we still have to do to address racial inequality in our society.
In a perfect world, what would the legacy of Uncle Remus tales be?
- They would be appreciated as valuable folklore, taught with historical context and sensitivity.
- They could spark conversations about cultural appropriation and respectful representation.
- People would be inspired by the stories to learn more about African American history and culture.
If you could waive a magic wand, what would the perfect adaptation of an Uncle Remus story look like?
- It would be a visually stunning animated film with a diverse cast and crew.
- The story would stay true to the spirit of the tales while addressing any insensitive content with care.
- It would be both entertaining and thought-provoking, sparking important conversations.
How often do you revisit Uncle Remus tales or think about their themes?
- Every now and then, when I’m feeling nostalgic or need a good laugh.
- I actually think about them quite a bit, as they relate to my work as a (teacher/writer/artist/etc.)
- Not as often as I probably should!
You are at a party and someone makes a lighthearted joke referencing Brer Rabbit, what do you do?
- Laugh along with them, it’s all in good fun.
- Use it as an opportunity to share my knowledge of the stories and their history.
- Gently steer the conversation in a different direction, I’m not really comfortable with that.
How comfortable are you discussing the more challenging aspects of Uncle Remus tales in a group setting?
- I’m happy to have open and honest conversations about race and representation.
- It depends on the group and the context.
- I prefer to avoid potentially sensitive topics like that.
You have an afternoon free to immerse yourself in the world of Uncle Remus, what do you do?
- I’d curl up with a good book of the stories and lose myself in them.
- I’d search for critical essays and articles to learn more about their historical context.
- I’d love to find an audio recording of someone reading the tales aloud in the original dialect.
Which of these issues surrounding Uncle Remus is most likely to be a struggle for you to reconcile?
- The use of dialect and the potential for perpetuating stereotypes.
- Separating the artistic merit of the stories from their problematic elements.
- Balancing appreciation for the tales with the need for social responsibility.
Which Uncle Remus character are you most like?
- I’d like to think I’m clever and resourceful like Brer Rabbit.
- I relate more to the cautious and observant nature of Brer Tarrypin.
- Honestly, I probably have the most in common with Brer Fox, I can be a bit too easily tempted!
Someone brings up a modern adaptation of an Uncle Remus story, what is your first response?
- I’m curious to see how they’ve handled the source material.
- I’m skeptical, it’s hard to do these stories justice without being offensive.
- I’m hopeful that it will introduce a new generation to these classic tales.
Someone asks, “What are your thoughts on Uncle Remus?” what’s the actual answer, not just a simple “They’re interesting?”
- They’re complex. There’s so much to unpack about storytelling, culture, and race relations wrapped up in them.
- They’re like nothing else I’ve ever read. The language, the characters, the lessons—they really stay with you.
- I have mixed feelings, to be honest. I appreciate the stories but I also recognize the problematic aspects.
What’s your go-to source for learning about Southern folklore and culture?
- I love reading books by Zora Neale Hurston and other Southern writers.
- Museums and historical sites are great for experiencing history firsthand.
- I find documentaries and podcasts to be really engaging ways to learn.
What aspect of 19th-century Southern plantation life do you most want to explore?
- The lives of enslaved people and the ways they preserved their culture and traditions.
- The role of storytelling and oral history in a time when literacy was limited.
- The complex relationship between white plantation owners and the people they enslaved.
What’s your favorite memory related to Uncle Remus Tales?
- My grandmother reading them to me when I was little.
- Discovering a rare edition of the book at an antique store.
- Having a lively debate about their meaning and significance with friends.
What aspect of folklore and mythology are you most passionate about?
- The way stories reflect our hopes, fears, and values.
- The connections between cultures and across time periods.
- The power of storytelling to transport and transform us.
What is your absolute favorite Southern dish that you think Brer Rabbit would enjoy?
- Peach cobbler, warm and comforting with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Shrimp and grits, a classic Southern staple with a kick.
- Fried chicken, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. Who could resist?
How would your friends and family describe your approach to difficult conversations about race and culture?
- Thoughtful and open-minded, always willing to listen and learn.
- A bit cautious, I don’t want to offend anyone.
- Passionate, I believe it’s important to speak up about injustice.
Tell us a little about your favorite trickster character from mythology or folklore?
- Loki from Norse mythology, he’s the ultimate agent of chaos.
- Anansi the Spider from West African folklore, always spinning tales and testing morals.
- I love them all! Tricksters are such fascinating figures.
If you could choose any animal to be your guide through a tricky situation, like Brer Rabbit, who would you choose and why?
- A fox, for their cunning and adaptability.
- An owl, for their wisdom and keen observation skills.
- A cat, because they always seem to land on their feet.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions the Disney film “Song of the South?”
- The controversy surrounding its portrayal of race and the plantation South.
- The catchy tune “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah” and the animated character Brer Rabbit.
- The missed opportunity to create a truly impactful film about Uncle Remus.
What aspect of the debate surrounding cultural appropriation affects you the most?
- The erasure of marginalized voices and the exploitation of their cultures.
- The need for greater understanding and sensitivity in how we engage with other cultures.
- The importance of representation and amplifying the voices of those who have been silenced.
What’s your idea of a responsible and respectful way to adapt Uncle Remus tales for modern audiences?
- Focus on the themes of resourcefulness, community, and storytelling rather than the potentially offensive elements.
- Involve Black writers, artists, and performers in every stage of the process.
- Create educational resources to accompany the adaptation and address the historical context.
What is your strongest opinion related to Uncle Remus and his legacy?
- It’s time to retire the character altogether and focus on amplifying authentic Black voices.
- We should engage with the stories critically, acknowledging both their value and their flaws.
- It’s up to each individual to decide how they want to interpret and engage with these complex tales.
How prepared are you to lead a discussion about the complexities of Uncle Remus Tales?
- I’m ready to facilitate a respectful and engaging conversation.
- I need to do a little more research before I feel comfortable.
- It’s not really my area of expertise, I’d rather leave it to the experts.
What happens if you’re asked to explain the controversy surrounding Uncle Remus to someone unfamiliar with the stories?
- I would provide a brief, neutral overview of the issues, being mindful of the audience.
- I would direct them to reputable sources where they can learn more.
- I would try to avoid the topic altogether, it’s a bit of a minefield.
What do you think is needed to bridge the gap between those who appreciate Uncle Remus Tales and those who find them offensive?
- Open dialogue, empathy, and a willingness to understand different perspectives.
- A greater awareness of the historical context and the impact of stereotypes.
- Perhaps it’s just not possible to reconcile these vastly different viewpoints.
How often do you actively seek out diverse perspectives on literature and storytelling?
- Regularly, I believe it’s essential for growth and understanding.
- Occasionally, when something piques my interest.
- Not as often as I should, I tend to stick to what I know.
How confident are you in your ability to identify and challenge harmful stereotypes in media?
- I’m quite confident, I’ve been consciously working on it.
- I’m getting better at it, but I still have a lot to learn.
- It’s not always easy, I sometimes struggle to articulate my thoughts.
How do you handle situations where a piece of media you enjoy is criticized for being culturally insensitive?
- I try to listen to the criticisms and understand why people are offended.
- I might feel defensive at first, but I’m willing to have my perspective challenged.
- I’ll probably keep enjoying it, I don’t let other people’s opinions dictate my tastes.
How well do you stick to your convictions when it comes to consuming media responsibly?
- I’m very conscious of supporting creators and content that aligns with my values.
- I try to be mindful, but I also believe in separating art from the artist.
- It’s not something I actively think about, I watch what I enjoy.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your approach to cultural representation in media?
- I actively seek out diverse voices and stories.
- I’m open to learning more and expanding my horizons.
- I’m more focused on the entertainment value than the social commentary.
To what degree do you experience discomfort when confronted with problematic elements in classic literature?
- I can find it quite jarring, it takes me out of the story.
- It depends on the context and the severity of the issue.
- I’m able to overlook it for the most part, times were different then.
Which of these best describes your current understanding of the historical context surrounding Uncle Remus Tales?
- I have a solid grasp on the complexities of race relations in the post-Civil War South.
- I know the basics, but I’m always looking to deepen my knowledge.
- I need a bit of a refresher, it’s been a while since I’ve studied this period.
What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to engaging with stories that contain potentially offensive content?
- Balancing my enjoyment with my responsibility to be a conscious consumer.
- Knowing when to speak up and when to just walk away.
- Overcoming my own biases and ingrained ways of thinking.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you encounter a racist or culturally insensitive remark?
- I feel disappointed and disheartened that people still think this way.
- I wonder where they learned that and what experiences shaped their perspective.
- I try not to engage, it’s not worth my energy.
How do you handle disagreements about cultural appropriation or representation with friends or family?
- I approach the conversation with empathy and respect, even if we disagree.
- I avoid it if possible, it’s not worth the argument.
- I stand my ground and make sure my voice is heard.
How would you describe your relationship to the ongoing conversation about race and representation in media?
- I’m an active participant, I believe it’s an important discussion.
- I’m learning and listening, trying to be a better ally.
- I’m a bit overwhelmed by it all, I just want to enjoy my entertainment.
Are you stuck in your ways when it comes to challenging your own biases and preconceived notions?
- I’m always open to learning and growing.
- I’m working on it, but it’s a process.
- I think I’m pretty open-minded already.
What would you say are your top struggles right now when it comes to promoting diversity and inclusion in your personal life?
- Breaking out of my bubble and connecting with people from different backgrounds.
- Educating myself on issues of social justice and becoming a better ally.
- Confronting my own privilege and implicit biases.
What is your personal goal when it comes to understanding and appreciating different cultures?
- To be a more informed and empathetic global citizen.
- To challenge my own assumptions and expand my worldview.
- To connect with people from all walks of life on a deeper level.
What do you think is missing in your quest to be more culturally aware and sensitive?
- More opportunities to engage in meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.
- Access to diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
- A willingness to confront my own biases and blind spots.
What is your current level of expertise when it comes to identifying and analyzing folklore motifs?
- I’m a bit of a folklore nerd, I can spot a motif a mile away.
- I know the basics, but I’m always happy to learn more.
- I’m not really sure, I haven’t studied it in-depth.
Someone makes a generalization about a particular cultural group, how do you respond?
- I politely challenge their statement and try to offer a more nuanced perspective.
- I let it slide, it’s not worth making a scene.
- I call them out on their prejudice and make it clear I don’t tolerate that kind of talk.
What word best describes how you feel when you witness casual racism or prejudice?
- Disheartened
- Frustrated
- Angry
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis?
- The state of the world and the rise of intolerance.
- My own impact on the world and whether I’m doing enough to make it a better place.
- I try not to dwell on negativity, I focus on what I can control.
How aware and engaged do you feel in your community when it comes to issues of diversity?
- I’m very involved in local organizations and initiatives.
- I’m aware of the issues, but I don’t always know how to get involved.
- I’m a bit out of the loop, to be honest.
How well do you think you balance honoring tradition with embracing progress?
- It’s a delicate balance, but I strive to find the middle ground.
- I’m more of a traditionalist at heart.
- I’m all about progress, sometimes you have to break with the past to move forward.
How connected do you feel to your own cultural heritage and traditions?
- Very connected, it’s a big part of my identity.
- Somewhat connected, I appreciate my roots but don’t always actively celebrate them.
- Not very connected, I’m more interested in forging my own path.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you in a conversation about diversity and inclusion?
- People who refuse to listen to or acknowledge other perspectives.
- People who deny the existence of racism and systemic inequality.
- People who make generalizations and assumptions about entire groups of people.
What is the trickiest part about discussing cultural appropriation?
- Defining where appreciation ends and exploitation begins.
- Navigating power dynamics and historical context.
- Finding the right words to express yourself without being offensive.
Do you find it more challenging to confront racism head-on or to address microaggressions and subtle forms of bias?
- Overt racism is easier to identify and call out.
- Microaggressions are more insidious and harder to address effectively.
- Both are equally important to challenge.
Do you have a support system in place, such as a close group of friends or a mentor, who you can talk to about these complex issues?
- Yes, I’m fortunate to have people in my life who understand and support me.
- I have a few people I can talk to, but I wish I had a stronger support network.
- Not really, I tend to process things on my own.
How do you determine your personal reading list each year when seeking out diverse authors and perspectives?
- I actively research books and authors from marginalized backgrounds.
- I rely on recommendations from friends, booksellers, and online communities.
- I tend to gravitate towards what looks interesting, I don’t have a specific strategy.
Are your efforts to engage with diverse perspectives consistently leading you to new insights and understandings?
- Yes, I’m constantly learning and growing.
- Sometimes, it can be challenging, but it’s always worth it.
- Not as often as I’d like, I need to be more proactive.
How do you manage the emotional labor of engaging in difficult conversations about race and social justice?
- I set boundaries and take breaks when needed.
- I rely on my support system for processing and debriefing.
- It can be draining, I’m still figuring out how to manage it effectively.