For nearly seventy years, we have collectively enjoyed Disney movies; the entertainment infused with moral lessons, catchy musical scores, and ever-evolving animation technology. The cultural influence of Disney is incredibly vast, reaching many different countries, generations, and people. The films, new and old, still have omnipresence in media entertainment and can be seen often on cassette, DVD, or satellite TV, now in high definition. The portrayed characters represent various ideals and values, and some of them stick in our collective memories as illustrations of lofty human characteristics. When it comes to women, Disney has a way of creating characters that won't be forgotten. Here are some of the best Disney heroines of all time.
3. Jasmine: Premiering in Aladdin, she is one of the first non-traditional Disney princesses, hailing from Arabia and flaunting her olive skin. Jasmine has some of the typical princess characteristics: beauty, an animal sidekick, etc. But she is remarkably honest and speaks her mind. Despite the fact that she has all the riches she could desire, she does not seek wealth and refuses to marry if it isn't for love. She represents the independent woman who has her eye on the things that really matter in life.
It is the fate of heroines to be laughed at.
—Jane O’Reilly, U. S. feminist and humorist. The Girl I Left Behind, ch. 7 (1980)
2. Pocahontas: She is the Native American princess who is a patron for her homeland and the creatures residing within it. Pocahontas comes from a tradition connected with the earth and will defend her community and her land until the end. She does her best to lessen the breach between her tribe and the European settlers, trying to avoid violence and misunderstandings between the two groups. She is a strong and independent woman who understands the rhythms and cycles of the earth and has a pure heart, and reminds us of the value in resisting cultural struggles and coming to a peaceful agreement.
1. Mulan: This warrioress is perhaps the most valiant and committed of all Disney heroines. She represents bravery and sacrifice in its truest form. Masquerading as a man during a historical period and cultural setting that did not allow independent behavior of women, Mulan throws herself into the world of war. In attempts to spare her aging and ailing father in the face of a mandatory military summons, she herself enlists in the army and suffers the brutal training and trying circumstances. Accompanied by her witty dragon ancestor, who makes up in comedic timing for what he lacks in size, she defends her country and her family in the face of certain death. Mulan is selfless, compassionate and very brave and embodies many ideals of the modern woman.
These unforgettable heroines will no doubt live into the future, appearing on the HD screens in front of audiences of children for generations to come.
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