This classic Thanksgiving television special has been one for the ages. Released in 1973, the Charlie Brown short ran for only 25 minutes but is still well known, even on Drury University’s campus today.

The short has comedic, touching and heartwarming moments throughout. When I first viewed the short film as a child, I was delighted to witness a Thanksgiving feast of items such as popcorn, pretzels, jelly beans and ice cream. When my mother would not indulge my wishes of this being my Thanksgiving dinner in 2004, it was extremely upsetting.

However, looking back it is simple to realize, I would rather have a classic Thanksgiving meal, as prepared by Charlie Brown’s grandmother over a table full of sweets.

Although I as a child and adult to this day adore A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, I was curious about what my other peers felt on the subject. In a poll conducted on a social networking site, it asked the simple question of “Do you like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving?” An overwhelming 86% voted yes and only 14% voted no.

Some Drury University students have particular memories and key emotions when asked about this holiday special. Sophomore Accounting major Mikayla Williams is a massive fan of this Charlie Brown special and even has a family tradition of watching this show whilst putting up their Christmas tree together. Williams also states, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is such a great movie. It brings my family together and shows a true and heartfelt message behind it.”

In contrast, there are some students, however, such as senior  Behavior and Community Health major Briana Sleeth who believes the Charlie Brown Thanksgiving special is lackluster, especially when compared to A Charlie Brown Christmas, and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. She states, “I don’t think that A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is bad, I just personally like the other Charlie Brown movies more. I know that this movie is educational on how Thanksgiving originated but I feel like there could have been more done to show the background of the holiday.” Sleeth also describes how she and her family have more childhood memories surrounding the other two Charlie Brown specials, and none surrounding the Thanksgiving short in particular.

And although some Drury students may have their opinions, faculty also have thoughts on the Charlie Brown special. Charles Taylor, a Professor of Communication, describes how this special was a traditional element of his childhood. When reflecting on his views of the Thanksgiving episode as an adult, Dr. Taylor states, “Watching it again as an adult, it’s clear that it mythologizes and oversimplifies certain historical events. That said, it’s also . . . a cartoon, one that does, at least, try to frame the first Thanksgiving in terms of the power of gratefulness and the importance of breaking bread together as a means of human connection. I can certainly imagine worse lessons at this historical moment.”

Considering these varying opinions from those who were polled, students such as Willams and Sleeth, professors like Taylor and everyone in between has their personal view on A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Whether you enjoy this particular special or not, it is important to find something to enjoy this holiday season to share with family or friends. After the chaos and difficult times of this past year, find something, as simple as a cartoon, to ease your mind and celebrate what you are thankful for.

Article by Gabriella Wuller