Controversy is big on this one. From Snow White in 1937 to Elsa in 2013, which Disney princesses are in the top tier? When it comes down to it, there are many qualities that make a great heroine. Here are some of my personal favorites.
1. Mulan
Though she isn't technically a princess, I believe she deserves some appreciation. I relate personally to Mulan for many reasons, and maybe that's why I love her so much. In the beginning of the movie, she's seen doing what every girl from her town does: getting ready to be examined for marriage. After this meeting goes terribly wrong, Mulan realizes that she's not happy with herself, and she is encouraged to make a change.
While maybe it wasn't the best thing to do, Mulan disguises herself as her father, steals his conscription notice and joins the Chinese Army to fight against the savage Huns. Though the men look down on her, she perseveres and becomes one of the most respected warriors, despite the shocking reveal of her gender.
Mulan fights for her family, for her friends and for herself. You go, girl.
2. Belle
Belle chose to love someone for the person underneath all the fur and hard exterior. Even though the Beast was not easy to get along with, Belle brought out the best in him. Isn't that what love is supposed to be? Bring out the best in one another.
Also, watching Belle be so excited about reading books definitely encouraged me as a young girl to read more often. Her imaginative nature and love for stories inspired me.
3. Pocahontas
One thing I always found particularly admirable of Pocahontas was her love and connectivity to her environment. Being Native American, she was raised to appreciate what she felt from the sensations of her surroundings. She admired the beauty around her, everything from the colors of the wind to the flowing river.
Also, let's talk about the culture barriers between Pocahontas and John Smith (and all of the Jamestown settlers for that matter). Yes, I know that the real version of Pocahontas's story was not nearly as romanticized as Disney's version, but the latter paid attention to teaching children a very important lesson: It is possible for different cultures to come together. Despite a language barrier, varying societal norms or simple common differences, Pocahontas showed that those sorts of "issues" don't matter.
