In September 2022, Disney released a book titled Beyond the Tiara, a beautiful volume that looks at the history of twelve of our favorite Princess movies. It’s a commentary on the evolution of the original fairy tale into the modern versions we love: movies, musicals, costumes, songs, and the actresses that gave our heroines their voices.
Beyond the Tiara is absolutely stunning… but it’s not what I expected from the title. I thought it was about the princesses — about how they are more than just the role of princess.
After some more thinking, I decided to take my original idea and explore the central themes behind each of my favorite fairy tales. As I delved into each story, I was struck by the depth and complexity of the characters beyond their royal titles. Sure, they may have been princesses, but they were also so much more than that. They were strong, brave, and determined, and they used their unique talents and abilities to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Which is where this series of posts comes in. Over the next twelve months, I’m going to look at a different fairy tale and how each story is influenced by a central theme. Whether loyalty or power, beauty or kindness, what drives the characters to be who they are?
It’s important to recognize and celebrate the depth and complexity of these characters, and to see them as more than just a tiara or a title. They are strong, capable women who inspire us to be our best selves and to never give up on our dreams.
So come along with me as we explore the truth behind these stories and how our favorite princesses are more than just a crown.
