Summary

  • Not all cartoons from their creator’s childhood stand the test of time, but there are several that hold a timeless feel.
  • The pinnacle of cartoons such as Avatar: The Last Airbender, Ed, Edd, and Eddy, Courage the Cowardly Dog, The Powerpuff Girls, and Steven Universe feature intriguing characters, enduring storylines, and a host of other iconic attributes.
  • Avatar: The Last Airbender makes its case as one of the most inclusive children’s shows, Breaking boundaries when it comes to gender roles, sexism, war, and more.
  • The enduring element of Ed, Edd, and Eddy revolves around the characters, particularly how they con fellow neighborhood kids.
  • Courage the Cowardly Dog eschews taboo topics in favor of paranormal antics in a style reminiscent of the Twilight Zone.
  • The Powerpuff Girls exemplifies punch feminism, empowering its female characters, along with smart, witty writing for all ages.
  • Finally, Steven Universe stands as a paradigm of what children’s shows should be, tackling questions of toxic behavior, gender, morality, and the power of love and compassion, with a stunning animation style to boot.

By Brady Klinger-Meyers

Original Article