Taking a Journey to a Mystical Land

By Kiana Jones

          I was invited by Dr. Megan O’Neil to watch the film, Pan’s Labyrinth. O’Neil is a new addition to the Language cohort of LLP.

In the movie, a young girl moves to Germany with her pregnant mother to her stepfather Vidal’s battle station. He is an evil man who is captain of a troop. She witnesses many cruel acts done by her stepfather and this treatment draws her to Pan's Labyrinth.

There she meets a mythical creature who instructs her to perform many dangerous tasks to help her get home. Pan's Labyrinth was filmed in Spain and directed by Guillermo del Toro. The main actors in the film are Ivana Baquero, who plays Ofelia, Maribel Verdu who plays Mercedes, Sergi Lopez who plays Vidal, and Ariadna Gil who plays Carmen.

Dr. Megan O’Neil

Pan's Labyrinth received many awards such as the Academy Award for Best Production, Academy Award for Best Cinematography, Academy Award for Best Makeup and Hairstyles, Goya Award for Best New Actress, Ariel Award for Best Actress, Ariel Award for Best Picture, BAFTA Award for Best Costume Design.

I liked the film because it gave a clear depiction about what the culture was like in Spanish-speaking countries in the 1940s. For example, women and children were always told “speak when spoken to” or “they are meant to be seen not heard.” In a male dominant society, it is obvious that Ofelia and her mother are seen as inferior and they are only relevant due to the fact Vidal is about to have a newborn baby.

O’Neil says the film provides unique insights into culture, language and history. “It gives people great historical context and helps you get in touch with your adventurous side,” she said.  I highly recommend this film to anyone who is interested in international and/or fantasy films.

Feminism's Advocate: An Interview with Dr. Jennifer Hayes

By Kiana Jones

            Do you know what Eartha Kitt, Maya Angelou, Janelle Monae, and Lizzo have in common? That’s right you guessed it! They are all African American feminists. There are many feminist scholars on the campus of Tennessee State University. I had the privilege of speaking with one: Dr. Jennifer Hayes.

Dr. Jennifer Hayes

            Hayes is a native of Nashville, Tennessee. She teaches upper division courses of African American Literature and Women’s Studies. She is one of six LLP faculty members who also teach women's studies courses.

            Hayes received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from University of Tennessee. Also she received her master’s from Tennessee State University and doctorate from Middle Tennessee State University. She has been teaching at Tennessee State University for nearly six years.

            One of her inspirations is Dr. Helen Houston, whom she met while pursuing her master’s degree. Poetry and drama are her two specialties, Hayes said.

            Her favorite thing about teaching at Tennessee State University is she loves introducing new texts to students.  “I want my students to know that their experience matters.” 

            She believes literature teaches individuals how to treat others with respect. Also she encourages students to READ, READ, READ! Read newspapers, signs, books, etc. Reading builds better vocabulary and challenges us to be critical thinkers. Literature allows people to have a voice and express themselves, she said. It is important to approach literature with a non-biased mentality. 

            Remember, reading is fundamental!