The Snow Queen: An Analysis of Disney's Frozen

A KINGDOM OF ISOLATION AND IT LOOKS LIKE I'M THE QUEEN.

A highborn and well-trained lady, Queen Elsa of Arendelle is as graceful as she is polite. She is well-versed in the customs of her time, and dutifully observes them whenever possible, barring instances where others may be at risk. Although naturally vivacious (as shown by her warmth and playfulness in the prologue and epilogue), she is forced to become an enigma, trapped by societal expectations and her own magical abilities. After nearly killing her sister with her powers, her parents close the gates to their castle. From then on, Elsa only interacts with her family and the servants, though she spends the majority of her childhood in her room, alone, devoting herself to her studies.* As a result, Elsa is an intellectual, who adores art in all its forms — music, books, nature — and possesses theoretical knowledge of most subjects. Additionally, because of her inability to control her powers, she is unable to touch anyone from a young age, and distances herself from those she loves in order to protect them. After her parents' death, Elsa becomes truly alone, without anyone who knows of her dangerous powers. She conceals her true self — her powers and her previously warm personality — crafting a regal, reserved persona, fit for a queen. Naturally, this repression takes its toll on Elsa. She lives her life in a constant state of fear, emotionally closed off from everyone, even her dear sister. Furthermore, underneath the surface, Elsa is extremely emotional, partially due to her inability to express herself. Her emotions build and release in bursts, her powers exploding with her temper.

Despite the disastrous results of her self-imposed exile, Elsa genuinely believes she is d...

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...nd, you know. ]

[ Another deep breath. ] If you haven't, well, there's something you should know about me. [ a beat. ] I have no intention of deceiving or endangering anyone, particularly in close quarters.

[ She stands back before placing her hand in view. With a flourish, she conjures a flurry of snowflakes. ]

Now, imagine that but bigger. Everywhere. A blizzard. That's the kind of thing I can do. [ There's a hint of pride in her voice before her tone turns deadly serious, almost scared. ] So, please, be careful. I can't always control it, but I'm working on it. [ Her face re-enters the frame. ] Of course, I understand if some of you would prefer to keep your distance.

[ Abruptly, with all the authority of a queen. ] Regardless, know that I will do everything in my power to return you to your respective homes and assist you while we're here. You need only ask.