Overcoming Appalachian Stereotypes

The announcement that CBS plans to create a new reality show called “The Real Beverly Hillbillies” has already generated objections that it would foster more disparaging views of the Appalachian Mountain culture. The show would follow an Appalachian family as they adjust to life as Hollywood millionaires. English professor Parks Lanier (RU) is tired of Appalachian stereotypes and says some of this country’s richest literature comes from the mountains. Phil Leonard (Central Virginia Community College) takes his students on an annual bus tour of Appalachian regions. Also featured: Amy Clark (UVA-Wise) studies how people from Appalachian communities feel about their dialect. She says many try to change their speech when they move out of the area, hiding their true origin.

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