When Disney’s “Frozen” hit theaters in 2013, it captured the hearts of audiences all around the world. Most of the attention was rightfully directed towards its protagonist, Elsa. Her character arc had been a remarkable journey of self-discovery throughout the movie. The story of “Frozen” provided an essential lesson about the development of emotional maturity through relationships.
Disney’s Elsa is a character that embodied how we can learn about relationship maturity. Her journey began when she was a small princess and continued to progress through each step of the film. By taking a close look at her character, along with other Disney characters, we can learn some of the significant lessons about relationship maturity.
Belle and the Beast:
One of the most famous Disney animated movies, “Beauty and the Beast,” can teach us much about relationship maturity. Belle beautifully portrayed the determination to find good in any person. She demonstrated her strength in the face of danger as she found herself within the beast’s castle.
The Beast was not initially an approachable confidant for Belle; as he was previously selfish and unkind. However, it was through his relationship with Belle that he began to exhibit the qualities of emotional growth. Through Belle’s encouragement and her persistence towards the relationship, the Beast learned to be selfless and kind.
Elsa and Anna:
In “Frozen,” Elsa’s relationship with Anna showed how climate could be damaging to one’s emotional life. Elsa is portrayed as wounded, as she was scarred by the emotional abuse she endured from the people in her life. It was through her relationship with Anna that she could begin to heal.
Anna acted as a support system for Elsa, which showed that relationships require both parties equally. It was essential that the characters developed their communication skills and forgave each other’s mistakes. Through their emotional healing, the two sisters rebuilt their relationship stronger than ever.
Simba and Mufasa:
Perhaps one of the most heartwarming relationships in animated movies was the bond between Simba and Mufasa. The “Lion King” is ultimately a representation of how the relationship between a parent and child can affect their emotional growth.
Simba was growing up in the shadow of his father’s greatness, and he was groomed to become King, just as his father did. When Mufasa died, his relationship with the young Simba resulted in tragic trauma. It was his connection with his father that allowed Simba to acknowledge his self-worth and take up the responsibility he was destined to. Even when he lost his confidence, Simba could still feel his father’s presence, coming to appreciate the path set out before him.
Aladdin and Jasmine:
In “Aladdin,” the movie portrayed the importance of accepting change and growth in a relationship. It showed that ventures outside of our comfort zones could be scary yet rewarding.
Aladdin and Jasmine had differed from each other’s lifestyle, but they still found a way to complement each other through their relationship. Aladdin’s perspective enabled Jasmine to see that it wasn’t just about status or recognition, but the connection and love between two people. The two characters learned to appreciate and grow together, leading to a beautiful ending for their relationship.
Dealing with emotional growth in a relationship can sometimes be challenging. Still, by observing how these Disney characters navigated through their experiences, there are several lessons to be learned about emotional maturity. Disney animated movies have been a valuable part of everyone’s childhood, with the numerous underlying messages ingrained in each story. By taking some of the keys outlined from these characters’ lives, it allows us to reflect on how we may perceive relationships in our own lives.
Disney’s animated movies offer valuable lessons about emotional maturity in relationships. Belle and the Beast taught us about finding good in people, Elsa and Anna about healing emotional wounds together, Simba and Mufasa about the parent-child bond, and Aladdin and Jasmine about the importance of accepting change.
“The past can hurt, but the way I see it, you can either run from it, or learn from it.” – Rafiki, The Lion King
