"West Side Story" is a classic film that explores the social construct of race and ethnicity and its impact on the characters' beliefs, actions, and decisions. The movie focuses on the rivalry between two teenage gangs: the Jets, who are white, and the Sharks, who are Puerto Rican immigrants.
The purpose of the film is to shed light on the racial tensions and discrimination faced by immigrants and minority groups in America during the 1950s.
ethnicity influences the characters' beliefs and actions in different ways. The Sharks' leader, Bernardo, is fiercely protective of his Puerto Rican identity and culture, which drives him to resist assimilation into American society. Similarly, the Jets are unwilling to accept the Sharks as equals and believe that their way of life is threatened by the influx of immigrants. This leads to a deep-seated hatred and mistrust between the two groups, fueling the violence and tension that ultimately results in tragedy.
The character of Tony, who is a former member of the Jets and falls in love with Maria, Bernardo's sister, is torn between his loyalty to his old gang and his feelings for Maria. His decision to leave the Jets and be with Maria ultimately leads to his tragic demise, highlighting the consequences of defying social norms and expectations.
The consequences of the social construct of race and ethnicity are far-reaching and have a significant impact on the characters' lives. The film shows how the characters' actions and decisions are shaped by their sense of identity and belonging, and how these can lead to conflict and violence. It also illustrates the devastating effects of prejudice and discrimination on individuals and communities and highlights the need for greater understanding and acceptance of diversity.
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