k@ta
Vol. 28 No. 1 (2026): JUNE 2026

Subverting the Prince Charming Trope: Female Empowerment in the Disney Frozen Series

Hung-Chang Liao (Chung Shan Medical University)
Yu-Heng Lee (Chung Shan Medical University)
Ya-Huei Wang (Chung Shan Medical University)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

This research explores how contemporary feminist reinterpretations of classic fairy tales subvert traditional gender stereotypes. It focuses specifically on the “Prince Charming” and “waiting-for-rescue” narratives to represent female empowerment and autonomy. Using Disney’s animated films Frozen and Frozen II as case studies, the study employs qualitative content analysis integrated with feminist visual text analysis, informed by feminist theory, postfeminist media culture, gender performativity theory, and contemporary feminist media studies. Through the analysis of selected scenes, dialogue, song lyrics, and visual elements, the research examines the transformation of women’s passive roles within 21st-century feminist discourses shaped by neoliberal individualism and fourth-wave critiques of representation. Special attention is given to the character development and identity formation of the heroines, Elsa and Anna, to show how the films retell classic fairy tale themes through a feminist lens. The findings show that Frozen and Frozen II challenge entrenched gender norms, foreground female agency, and offer a contemporary framework for understanding women’s empowerment and self-determined autonomy in popular media.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ing

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

k@ta: a biannual publication on the study of language and literature is a refereed journal published twice a year in June and December by the English Department, Faculty of Letters, Petra Christian University, Surabaya, Indonesia. It presents articles on the study of language, literature and ...