It seems as though Disney princesses get a lot of grief for being seen as little girls' aspirations. The idea of being "saved" by Prince Charming or dressing beautifully seems to be the sole focus of critics' attention. I am someone who is an outspoken supporter of empowering women, and I can honestly say that Disney princesses are some of the best role models.
1. Ariel - "The Little Mermaid"
Growing up, Ariel was my favorite princess of all time and no one could tell me otherwise. We both have red hair, love to sing, and the ocean is our favorite place. But it wasn't until I participated in my middle school's production of "The Little Mermaid" where I really understood Ariel and her intention. As my play director described it, this is the story of a girl who doesn't feel like she belongs where she is, so she dreams to live in another place.
Prince Eric taking her in was just an added bonus (would any of us reject the opportunity for true love? Didn't think so). Not to mention, Ariel ends up saving everyone in the end so there are no flaws and your criticism is wrong. Next. (High fives four-year-old self.)
2. Cinderella - "Cinderella"
Why is Cinderella a great role model? She literally gets saved by Prince Charming to escape her horrible home. But I don't think people realize how important Cinderella is. Cinderella's reality is one that hits home, unfortunately, for many people. She lost her mother, and then her father married a horrible woman. Then to add to the tragedy, her father passed away and left her to be subject to her step-mother and step-sisters' jealousy-ridden torture.
She lived every day as a prisoner to them and had no means of escaping, until one day she took a brave chance to follow her dream of attending the royal ball.
From there, she met the love of her life and (after many obstacles) lived happily-ever-after. The Disney story of Cinderella is one of hope to people who feel as though their circumstances are permanent to them. It is a story about how your life, no matter how miserable, will not be that way forever. While finding Prince Charming or a Fairy Godmother may not be realistic means of escaping, the message holds true.
Plus, the Fairy Godmother saved her, not Prince Charming. He was just part of her plan #justsaying.
3. Mulan - "Mulan"
This story is actually based off of an Ancient Chinese poem, telling the same story (minus many details created by Disney). Mulan is a brave, charismatic young woman who is afraid to see her elderly father go off to war. Since she doesn't have any brothers who can take his place, she cuts her hair and changes her clothes to attempt to resemble her father's son and take his place in the war.
In the end, Mulan ends up saving all of Ancient China and being honored by the emperor. If this movie doesn't scream feminist role model I don't know what does.
4. Belle - "Beauty and the Beast"
Beauty and the Beast tells the story of a young woman who, like Mulan, goes out of her way to save her father who is trapped in the Beast's castle. She might be afraid, but she doesn't show it despite everyone else's terror. Why? Because this girl has things to do. Belle sacrifices her freedom to save her father and in the meantime ends up seeing the beauty of the Beast's personality once she gets to know him. Belle realizes that even though he may be unattractive on the outside, he is beautiful on the inside.
Also, Belle is an avid reader and known for being beautiful, yet strange to the townspeople because she does not fit her society's norm. She's amazing and would make an excellent role model.
See also: I'm Hesitant About Letting My Future Daughter Watch Disney Princess Movies, They Never Let The Woman Be Strong On Her Own
Every Disney princess tells the story of an amazing young woman who personifies various wonderful and important characteristics that all girls and boys should aspire to. Growing up with these girls has taught me the importance, overall, of being kind to people. Ariel, Cinderella, Mulan, and Belle have many different ways of telling that "golden rule" while also reminding young children to be strong, independent and have faith in their dreams while seeing the good in people.
How could that be so wrong?
