The Mystery of Mr. Banks and His "Ideal" Mary Poppins: Deciphering the Literary and Cinematic Portrayals The question of what Mr. Banks desired in a nanny\, particularly in the context of the beloved story "Mary Poppins\," often focuses on the physical characteristics of his ideal candidate. While the books and the film interpretations provide insights into Mr. Banks' character\, finding a definitive answer to "How did Richard Stevenson want Mary Poppins to look like?" requires a deeper dive into the complexities of the story. The Books: A More Subtle Perspective P.L. Travers' original "Mary Poppins" books\, though offering glimpses into Mr. Banks' personality\, do not explicitly address his preferences for a nanny's appearance. Instead\, they emphasize Mr. Banks' strictness\, his preoccupation with his work\, and his lack of emotional connection with his children. He values order and discipline\, as demonstrated by his preference for a nanny who can instill these qualities in his children. The books paint a picture of a man who is more concerned with the functional aspects of a nanny than their physical attributes. While Mr. Banks does express disapproval of Mary Poppins' unconventional methods\, he ultimately acknowledges her effectiveness in managing his children and bringing joy to their lives. This suggests that his initial preconceived notions about a nanny's appearance were less important than her ability to meet his practical needs. The Films: A More Visible Narrative The 1964 Disney film adaptation of "Mary Poppins" deviates from the books\, introducing a more visual element to Mr. Banks' character. The film's director\, Robert Stevenson\, chose Julie Andrews to play Mary Poppins\, highlighting her beauty\, charm\, and warmth. This visual representation\, alongside the film's musical and whimsical elements\, subtly implies that Mr. Banks' ideal nanny would be attractive\, captivating\, and capable of transforming his family's rigid routine into a more joyous experience. However\, it's crucial to remember that the film is a reinterpretation of the story\, not a faithful adaptation. While the filmmakers emphasized visual elements\, the underlying themes of family dynamics and personal growth remain central to the narrative. Deciphering the Discrepancies: A Matter of Interpretation The contrasting portrayals of Mr. Banks' ideal nanny in the books and the film highlight the subjectivity of artistic interpretation. While Travers' text emphasizes Mr. Banks' internal struggles and his need for order\, the film focuses on visual elements that appeal to a broader audience. This disparity raises several questions: Did Robert Stevenson intend to explicitly depict Mr. Banks' physical preferences for a nanny? Did the film's visual emphasis on Julie Andrews' beauty reflect a conscious choice to address audience expectations of a classic fairytale? Does the film's portrayal of Mr. Banks' transformation through Mary Poppins' influence suggest a shift in his values\, including his appreciation for beauty and charm? These questions remain open to interpretation\, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the "Mary Poppins" story and the evolving perspectives on the character of Mr. Banks. Exploring the Complexities: A Deeper Dive While the story of Mary Poppins often revolves around finding the right nanny\, it's important to recognize the broader themes at play: The importance of family dynamics: The story explores the complexities of family relationships\, highlighting the need for balance between discipline and affection. The power of love and imagination: Mary Poppins' presence brings joy and imagination to the Banks family\, reminding them of the importance of nurturing their inner child. The transformative power of change: The story showcases how personal growth and change are possible\, even in the most rigid of circumstances. Focusing solely on Mr. Banks' physical preferences for a nanny risks overlooking these crucial aspects of the story. Ultimately\, the true essence of the "Mary Poppins" narrative lies in its exploration of human relationships and the journey of self-discovery. Conclusion: Beyond Physical Appearances The question of how Mr. Banks wanted Mary Poppins to look like\, while intriguing\, is ultimately secondary to the story's broader themes. While the film's visual elements provide a compelling narrative\, it is the book's exploration of human relationships and personal growth that resonates most deeply with readers. Ultimately\, Mr. Banks' ideal nanny\, like any ideal person\, is someone who can inspire change\, bring joy\, and guide the family towards a more fulfilling life. FAQ: Addressing Common Questions Q: Did P.L. Travers ever discuss Mr. Banks' preferences for a nanny's appearance? A: While Travers' books do not explicitly mention Mr. Banks' physical preferences\, they do highlight his focus on discipline and order. Q: Did Robert Stevenson\, the film's director\, have any particular reasons for choosing Julie Andrews? A: Julie Andrews' popularity\, her singing talents\, and her ability to portray both warmth and strength made her an ideal choice for the role of Mary Poppins. Q: Do the books and the film provide contradictory interpretations of Mr. Banks' character? A: The books focus on Mr. Banks' internal struggles\, while the film emphasizes visual elements. Both interpretations offer valuable insights into the complexities of his character. Q: Is Mr. Banks a villain in the story? A: Mr. Banks is not a villain\, but a complex character grappling with societal expectations and his own emotional needs. Q: What is the true message of "Mary Poppins"? A: The story emphasizes the importance of family\, the power of imagination\, and the transformative nature of change.