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Overzealous Song Analysis: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
This classic Christmas song shows us that sometimes genetic mutations can be helpful. It also illustrates what society, particularly American society, values.
Much like the peppered moths who discovered that blending into soot-covered things gave them an advantage, Rudolph learns that being useful helps him become a valued member of the group. A sad state of affairs, but unfortunately similar scenarios play out in the real world every day.
We get a very literal example of herd mentality when the other eight reindeer shun Rudolph for being different. It’s unclear how they would be responding to him if they were alone with him. Reindeer, just like people, behave differently in groups. They may feel pressured to behave in ways they wouldn’t normally. Alternatively they may feel emboldened to behave badly because they do not feel as individually responsible.
Santa must not see himself as part of the reindeer group because he doesn’t bully Rudolph.
”Rudolph, with your nose so bright
Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?”
He can’t be all good though because he employs the reindeer who bully Rudolph. He’s in charge and allowed it to happen for quite some time. He has a naughty and a nice list! He could’ve hired only reindeer who…
