Does Shrek have a hidden message? A fifth film in the series has just been announced. Many critics attribute the film’s amazing success to its underlying philosophy.
Grumpy green ogre to return next year
Hero: One writer calls Shrek the "perfect libertarian" because he "judges no creature by appearance, but only by their actions" and "doesn’t put his faith in government". Glossary
Euripides - An ancient Greek playwright, known for his tragedies.
Gentrification - When a poor area of a city dramatically transforms into a wealthy neighbourhood, often due to an influx of wealthier people.
Ambivalent - Having two opposing feelings at the same time, or being uncertain about how you feel.
Government subsidies - When the government gives money in order to help an industry or public service, or to keep prices low for ordinary people.
Ulterior - A secret or hidden motive.
Marxist - A supporter of the left-wing political, economic and philosophical ideas of Karl Marx.
Bourgeoisie - In a Marxist context, the capitalist class who own most of the wealth in society.
Capitalism - A form of economy characterised by private property and competition between companies.