Princess Profiles: Pocahontas

This article continues an article series on the Disney Princesses which we have dubbed the “Princess Profiles“. Chronologically, us Roto-writers are discussing these characters in-depth, all leading up to the introduction of the two newest Disney princesses: Anna and Elsa, who will be the main characters in Frozen, which will be released to much excitement, cheering, and applause on November 27.

Pocahontas the film has always had to defend itself as a solid Disney work. The inaccuracy of the historical story, the adaptation of the characters’ ages and traits, not to mention the not-so-happy ending of their leading lady and her love interest are only a few of the things that usually come up when discussing the film. However, one thing they’ve never had to defend is Pocahontas the character (aside from the historical inaccuracies that is).

As a princess, Pocahontas demonstrates some of the more down-to-earth traits that a princess can have; a sense of adventure, respect for all people and things, and above all faith. For the most part, I believe all of the princesses posses some, if not all of these traits, but Pocahontas does it in her own way which makes hem super special.

Adventure

I look once more
Just around the riverbend
Beyond the shore
Where the gulls fly free
Don’t know what for
What I dream the day might send
Jut around the riverbend
For me
Coming for me

One of Pocahotas’ best attributes is her sense of adventure. In the moments after meeting her, we see Pocahontas canoeing, following the wind, jumping off of waterfalls, running in the forest, and hugging bear cubs, which all lend to her adventurous nature. A lot like Merida and Jasmine, Pocahontas can’t help but follow her gut instinct, and chase her dreams to their fullest extent.

Respect

You can’t be a Disney Princess without having even the most rudimentary acts of kindness imbedded into your being. Respect is one of those traits that emanates from each princess, but it manifests itself quite differently in Pocahontas. Pocahontas has a profound respect not only for her elders (though she does disobey her father, but more on that later), but for herself, her enemies and for nature.

With the song “Colors of the Wind”, Pocahontas tries, and succeeds I think, in showing John Smith that there are much bigger things on this Earth, than just our personal greed, misunderstanding, and ignorance. When we affect everything, we should carry that responsibility with us (“How high does the Sycamore grow, if you cut it down you will never know”).

Faith

The biggest trait Pocahontas has is her faith. When Pocahontas rejects an arranged marriage, and disobeys her father by seeing John Smith, she does it not as an act of rebellion, but as an act of faith in herself. Pocahontas knows herself well, and is willing to wait things out in order to see what it is her heart is actually searching for, to see where her destiny lies. As we become a society more and more in tune with the “we need this now” type of life style, it’s easy to forget that some things need time…and faith that they will happen, but more importantly faith in ourselves that we will be ready and open when the time comes.

Final Thoughts

Pocahontas showcases many traits that help her be the best person she can be, not for herself, but for her community, and for her surroundings. So that when the day of reflection comes, she can be content knowing that she did the best she could to remain true to herself, while also being accountable for those that depend on her.