Even though he was created 74 years ago, almost everybody can recognize the bald boy with the yellow zigzagged shirt. Charlie Brown became a worldwide symbol representing autumn, the holiday season, and the innocence of childhood. But what makes Charles Schulz’s world of “Peanuts” still appeal to people decades after his death?
“I think Charlie Brown, and ‘Peanuts’ in general, were the first cartoons where we could feel the emotion,” LHS art teacher Micah Malone said. “Charlie Brown was the first truly empathetic cartoon character.”
Compared to other famous cartoons from the period such as “Tom and Jerry” and “Rocky and Bullwinkle,”“Peanuts” wasn’t just for laughs.
While the others were mainly a series of overexaggerated gags, Charlie Brown and his friends provided viewers with an everyday personality who they could relate to.
“[Viewers] not only feel for him and his various struggles, but feel with him,” Malone said. “I think this is why people still love those comics.”
Charlie Brown acts as a distinct childhood memory for audiences who connected with his comics and movies at a young age. Even though “Peanuts” was actually first a cartoon called “Li’l Folks” and then its own famous cartoon strip, the series is also well known for the “Peanuts Holiday Collection DVD.”
“He makes me think of reading comics with my grandpa,” junior Cecilia Hahn said. “And he reminds me of all his Christmas and Thanksgiving movies and friendship.”
It has become tradition for many families to watch those cartoons every holiday, and the songs from “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” in particular are the most recognizable. The series isn’t just loved for its simple art style and relatable characters, but also for its distinct jazzy soundtrack.
“There’s music in everything we do in life,” LHS band teacher Daniel Hartley said. “Music is what makes things memorable, and in the case of Charlie Brown’s music, you can instantly tell what it’s from.”
Bringing the three aspects of good storytelling, childhood memories and distinguishable music together, Charlie Brown acts as a timeless comfort to millions of people.
“I think Charlie Brown is still relevant today because he’s inspiring,” Hahn said. “He just never gives up.”