Jean Cocteau:

La Belle et la Bête

As you watch Cocteau's rendition of Beauty and the Beast, or shortly after, answer the following questions:

How is the adaptation faithful to Beaumont's text?

How does it differ from it?

How does Cocteau emphasize love and sexuality in his adaptation?

The moral of Beaumont's tale is that hapiness is based on virtue and kindness rather than beauty and wit. Does Cocteau's film contradict this moral?

How does he netvetheless emphasize love and sexuality?

How does he contrast the real world of the merchant and his family and the enchanted world of the beast? (Think in terms of costumes, light, music, special effects, etc.)

What do you make of the character named Avenant? What does he add to the story?

Please also take note of any other insight you may have on this adaptation and bring them to class.