Breaking Down Disney’s Shift in Female Hero Tropes: From Mulan to Galadriel

When Disney introduced Mulan, she was a young woman who defied tradition and fought for her family, but what set her apart was her need to grow. She wasn’t born a warrior—she trained, struggled, and learned. Her hero’s journey was about overcoming her fears, doubts, and expectations to become a true leader. This journey made her relatable and inspiring to audiences. Fast forward to The Rings of Power, where Galadriel is portrayed as already a powerful warrior and leader. She’s strong from the start, but her journey is more about dealing with her inner struggles rather than learning new skills. The shift from Mulan’s hard-won growth to Galadriel’s almost preordained power reflects a broader change in how female characters are portrayed today. While powerful women are celebrated, some audiences feel that without a journey of self-discovery, these characters can feel distant and unrelatable. The focus on innate power rather than earned strength can sometimes make these characters seem more like symbols of power than actual people with weaknesses and growth. Disney’s shift may be about empowering women, but it also challenges the heart of storytelling—characters who rise through adversity.