Boanerges: Makarios Education Journal
Vol 3 No 2 (2026): BOANERGES

Rewriting the Damsel’s Fate: A Deconstructive Feminist Analysis of Damsel (2024) Movie and the Subversion of Fairy Tale Narratives

Djohan, Febrina Stevani (Unknown)
Surya, Michaella Isabel (Unknown)
Nathanael, Jeshua (Unknown)
Sihombing, Cleary Arnold (Unknown)
Kawulusan, King David Lie (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2026

Abstract

This research examines the movie Damsel (2024) through the lens of Jacques Derrida’s narrative deconstruction (2016). The issue shown in the movie is patriarchal expectations that portray women as a passive figure and as a sacrificial. The purpose of this study is to examine how Damsel challenges the traditional fairy tale trope by showing a female protagonist who reclaims her agency through survival and resistance. This study used a qualitative method while examining scenes and narratives. The result shows that: 1) Damsel deconstructs traditional fairy tale narratives by positioning the princess as her own savior; 2) The movie subverts patriarchal expectations by resisting the rigid tradition of female sacrifice; and 3) Elodie’s survival is portrayed as an act of resistance against societal control. The conclusion of the study highlights that Damsel offers a feminist reinterpretation of the traditional fairy tale trope. The significance of this research is the contribution to feminist movies, demonstrating how modern literature or movies can redefine women’s role in narratives. It is hoped that future researchers will further explore other fairy tales that challenge traditional gender roles similar to Damsel (2024).

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Journal Info

Abbrev

boanerges

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences Other

Description

The Boanerges (Multidisciplinary Education Journal) is dedicated to advancing the understanding and practice of multidisciplinary education across various fields and disciplines. Boanerges seeks to publish high-quality research articles, reviews, and critical analyses that contribute to the ...