Study Breaks - Page 418 of 447 - Fresh perspectives on pop culture from students across the United States.

A cat entering a magic portal to another world

The Fantasy Trope of the ‘Magic Portal’ Feels Incredibly Appropriate Right Now

So-called ‘portal fantasy’ reveals the awe, fear and transformative power of traveling to another world — one that might be appealing in our present dystopia.

Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

In an article about J.K. Rowling and her transphobia, a scene from Harry Potter, The Order of the Phoenix

Pages·Screens

Why the Magical World of ‘Harry Potter’ Now Belongs to the Fans, Not J.K. Rowling

Just because the author has revealed her transphobia doesn't mean fans have to completely abandon the the franchise. Instead, they can reclaim it.

Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

Sounds

Austin Plaine Is a Singer-Songwriter With a Penchant for Raw Storytelling

The Minneapolis-born country-folk artist uses his music to create narratives worth sharing.

Jackie Sizing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Pages·Screens

Rorschach of ‘Watchmen’ Is a Mirror Reflecting Our Present Moral Issues

Alan Moore's comics explored a character's psyche that continues to resonate with contemporary politics, albeit for the wrong reasons.

Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

Screens

‘Da 5 Bloods’ Shows That Spike Lee Is the Most Prescient Filmmaker Today

The acclaimed director has consistently probed difficult questions throughout his career. His latest feature is no exception.

Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

Illustration by Diana Egan in article about Chosen One tropes

Pages

Veronica Roth’s ‘Chosen Ones’ Deconstructs an Age-Old Trope

The 'Divergent' author's newest novel revitalizes the tired 'chosen one' trope by weaving a compelling narrative about what happens to heroes after saving the world.

Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

Thoughts

Many ‘Eco-Friendly’ Companies Are Just Pretending To Be Good for the Earth

While certain businesses may market their products as environmentally friendly, their practices are often anything but.

Tess McGrinder, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Illustration by Diana Egan in an article about working out in aparments

Thoughts

A Guide To Working Out When You Live in a Small Apartment

Sticking to a fitness routine is already a struggle, but what about when your 'gym' is within the confines of a small living space?

Madelyn Haasken, Bemidji State University

Illustration by Daisy Daniel's on a hand writing letters, next to an open mailbox

Thoughts

Becoming Pen Pals With My Best Friends During Quarantine

Sending letters through the mail provides a more physical connection than messages over digital platforms.

Eva Halvax, University of Arizona

Illustration of a business woman in an article about the term girlboss

Thoughts

Is It Time to Cancel the Controversial Term ‘Girlboss’?

Once a term that conjured up images of hard-working women ready to smash the glass ceiling, the word now represents everything wrong with America’s capitalistic system.

Audrey Martin, Boston University

In an article about accountability, an office space with a table full of people

Thoughts

Accountability Is a Good Start: Diversity as a Permanent Part of Business

Replacing the CEO with a Black executive isn't enough to establish long-term inclusivity. There is still work to do in the name of transformative action.

Juliana Fujii, Biola University