Empathy is such an important skill in life, and one that Disney characters often seem to embody. From the earliest classics to the latest blockbusters, Disney has created some of the most beloved and memorable characters in cinematic history. But when it comes to learning empathy, there are a few characters who really stand out as exemplary models.
Take, for example, Rafiki from The Lion King. He is a wise old baboon who serves as a spiritual leader to all the animals of the Pride Lands. Rafiki is a perfect example of how empathy can be used to help others. Throughout the movie he works tirelessly to teach Simba the importance of empathy. His famous quote, “The past can hurt, but you can either run from it or learn from it,” is a prime example of the kind of empathy that helps both individuals and communities heal.
Another example of a Disney character who exemplifies empathy is Belle from Beauty and the Beast. She is a relatable character for anyone who has felt out of place in their own skin or in their community. Belle shows incredible empathy throughout the movie, not just towards the Beast, but towards every inhabitant of the castle who has been cursed. In the scene where Belle is tending to the Beast’s wounds, she asks him “How did you end up like this?” and goes on to listen attentively to his story. This shows incredible empathy and kindness on Belle’s part.
Perhaps one of the most empathetic characters in all of Disney history is Elsa, the Snow Queen from Frozen. Elsa spent her entire life trying to suppress her magical abilities, out of fear of harming others. Her struggle is relatable to anyone who has felt like an outsider, and her eventual realization that she can use her powers for good is a testament to the power of empathy. Elsa spends much of the movie trying to protect her sister Anna, even going so far as to sacrifice herself to save her sibling from an eternal winter. Her powerful message of love and inclusion is something we can all learn from.
It’s not just the protagonists that display empathy though; Disney villains can also teach us valuable lessons. One prime example of this is in The Lion King, where Scar is the villain. Scar lacks empathy for others, and ultimately this is his downfall. In the scene where Scar sings “Be Prepared,” he spouts hateful rhetoric about the hyenas being beneath the lions in the social hierarchy. Scar’s lack of empathy for the hyenas leads to the downfall of his regime, as the hyenas eventually turn on him. This kind of empathy is one that we should all strive to avoid.
Finally, we can learn a lot about empathy from Woody, the main character in Toy Story. Woody is a very relatable character, as he often feels lonely and unsure of his place in the world. However, throughout the movie he learns important lessons about empathy, such as the importance of listening to others and being patient with them. In the scene where Woody explains to Buzz Lightyear that he is a toy and not a space ranger, he does so with kindness and understanding. This teaches us that even when we disagree with someone, we should approach them with empathy and understanding.
Overall, there are many Disney characters that teach us valuable lessons about empathy. Whether it’s Rafiki’s wise words about learning from the past or Belle’s kindness towards the Beast, these characters remind us of the importance of empathy in our lives. As we continue to grow and learn, we can all strive to be more like these characters and to treat others with the empathy and compassion that they deserve.
Disney characters, such as Rafiki, Belle, Elsa, Woody and even the villain Scar, teach us valuable lessons about the importance of empathy in our lives. They remind us to approach others with compassion and understanding.
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” -Nelson Mandela