Over and over I've seen articles discussing why the Disney Princesses ruin feministic values for little girls. Yes, they live in rare situations, in fantasy worlds with their Prince Charmings that sweep them off their feet. Although many would argue they're just damsels in distress that do nothing and get swept off their feet, I'd like to note the valuable lessons they teach to the young dreamers that watch their magical stories.
Cinderella isn't just a beauty that gets a once in a lifetime chance to be a happily married princess in a palace. She has a beautiful soul that doesn't get tarnished by her evil stepmother and stepsisters. Even though she has reason to be bitter and mean, she stays sweet and positive. Once she's been in the palace some time, we see she continues to be humble and keeps her traditional, simplistic yet thoughtful values. She also shows kindness to her sisters and doesn't hold a grudge, just being the happy, beautiful person she is.
The first thing Belle shows us is that it's important to be smart and imaginative, idealizing her dad's quirky inventiveness over her looks the townspeople only notice about her. Beauty in her story is of little importance. She teaches us to love for a person's spirit rather than their looks. She also teaches us not to become like people just to fit in, and to search for adventure and excitement.
Ariel is incredibly adventurous and brave. She risks everything to have a chance to be with the man she falls for and trusts in her instincts to learn how to be in a whole new world. She doesn't let fear keep her from chasing her dreams to join the human world and ultimately find happiness.
Mulan teaches young girls and women not to let gender roles hold you back from fighting for what you know is right and protecting your family. She is incredibly tough, selfless, and brave. She ultimately brings the highest honor and pride to her family, and shows us how to work for self-pride and self-love.
Pocahontas teaches us a lesson some Americans still struggle with: Not to judge others of a different culture and race before getting to know them and respect their values. She also reminds us how precious nature is, to respect animals, and that love is the most powerful bond of all.
Elsa teaches us that, first off, you shouldn't just run off and get married with the first guy you fall for (thank you!), and that just because others may not understand your differences and gifts, doesn't mean you should have to hide them. Normalcy is boring anyway. Also, time apart doesn't have to hurt the bonds with family. The most important thing is that you're there to look out for and protect each other.
Jasmine reminds young women not to just settle for marrying someone if you're "at that age" and someone thinks it's "that time." She also loves for who someone is rather than what they have, and shows how important it is to be with a guy who tells you the truth and sees you as an equal, not just a prize to be won.
Tiana is a role model to work hard towards your goals and aim for a career and future before worrying about finding the right husband and being in love. She's and incredibly smart, hard-working, and independent woman. She works for what her family believes is really important in life, but knows when to follow her heart towards her greatest desires.
