Disney princesses are known for their strength, beauty, sacrificial love, and major feminine power. These animated female role models have been molding the minds of women everywhere, since the late 1930's. As a young girl these princesses were just animations that sang, wore pretty dresses and usually married a handsome prince, but as a young woman watching these movies so much more is revealed. I began to notice the social norms and ideas that were etched into my mind simultaneously making me who I am. Some princesses were helpless, without the rescue of a man, and some princesses taught us, that with confidence and kindness you can just as surely save yourself. Whether it was the idea that "a dream is a wish your heart makes" or "remember you're the one who can fill the world with sunshine" they subconsciously taught you something. Bellow is the rankings of Disney princesses based on feminist influence.
1. Mulan
Mulan is my top choice of feminist influence. She knows that regardless of her sex, and the opinions of others, she is equal and just as qualified as anyone else. Mulan shows us that if you care about something and fight for it, chances are you will succeed.
2. Tiana
Princess Tiana is a close second on my ranking. As the first black, and American princess, Tiana had her work cut out for her. She showed us that through hard work, passion, and integrity, anything can be accomplished.
3. Megara
Megara, a somewhat overlooked princess, is 3rd on my list. Megara exemplifies the more angsty, cynical side of feminists. She doesn't want any help, and she isn't afraid to say it. Although she is a slave to Hades, she still manages to redeem herself in the end.
4. Jasmine
Jasmine comes in as number four on my ranking. She is willing to go against everyone's wishes so that she can marry for love, and live a life she is proud of. Jasmine is compassionate, strong-willed, and clever.
5. Rapunzel
Rapunzel knows she deserves more and is willing to do whatever it takes to get it. She can protect herself and refuses to give up on anything or anyone. She may ask for Flynn's help to get where she wants to go, but not because she's sexist, simply because she doesn't know how.
6. Pocahontas
Pocahontas has some legitimate feminist influence. She is brave, smart, and curious. She shows us that women are just as powerful as men, by standing up for what she believes in, and teaching us that our differences are what make us beautiful.
7. Belle
Belle shows us that being unique and being intelligent are things to be proud of. She is willing to sacrifice her whole life for her father and is able to see past the beasts looks, and into his heart. Feminist influence? Possibly. Overall great person/princess? Definitely.
8. Ariel
Ariel is ambitious, curious, and passionate. She wants to learn and explore and knows that it is her right to do so. I put Ariel at eight because even though she does give away part of who she is to be with a man, she also did everything she could to follow her dream.
9. Cinderella
Cinderella is by no means a feminist icon, but she does set a wonderful example for people in general. She taught us that being kind, humble, and gracious is the MOST important thing. A timeless and sweet example of what it means to be a good person.
10. Snow White
Snow White might be the fairest of them all, but not the feminist of them all. She is a servant to 7 dwarfs and has to be saved by a man. She is kind and pretty, though!
11. Aurora
Aurora is by far the least feminist of all the princesses, considering she can't even continue her life, without a kiss from a man. Other than being able to sing to animals, there isn't much to admire.
