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Francheska Heart Ymbong 9A
Princess Mononoke, an animated film with “Alpha” females
(Literally and Figuratively)
Mononoke-hime, or Princess Mononoke, set in the 14th century is a Studio Ghibli film that
stands as a powerful feminist film that challenges traditional gender roles by presenting strong and
multidimensional female characters, San and Lady Eboshi. The film starts with the journey of
Ashitaka, a warrior afflicted with the boar demon’s curse. While searching for a cure, he is caught up
in a battle between the forest spirits, led by Princess Mononoke or San, and the nearby growing Iron
Town, led by Lady Eboshi. In the chronicles of his adventure, he faces the issue of
environmentalism, and humanity and learns that the borders separating good and evil are often
blurred. This film depicts the intricacies of human relationships with the environment as it examines
the ever-relevant conflict between nature and industrialization.
The intricacies of human relationships with the environment can be seen through our two
strong main female characters, San, who was raised by wolves, and Lady Eboshi, a powerful leader
of Iron Town, both challenging societal norms. San defies stereotypes, as she embodies
independence and determination. She becomes a central figure in the film’s exploration of
environmentalism with her strong connection with nature and resolve to save nature from
destruction. As she is often seen wearing a red mask, she is depicted to have a complex and
multifaced personality. Opposite to her is Lady Eboshi, with a similar resolution to protect her
people of the Iron Town. She is a pragmatic leader who wants to clear San’s and many others’
homes, the forest, for resources. Her character challenges traditional stereotypes as she commands a
force of women and former prostitutes. Although seen as a reliable figure by her people, her actions
of hunting and deforestation contribute greatly to the conflict with the spirits of the forest.
Feminist Messages were interwoven into several parts of this film, namely in
environmentalism as a feminist cause and women’s roles in society. Princess Mononoke’s
connection with nature exemplifies that she is a strong and independent “alpha” female. This
connection with nature and protectiveness over her home challenges conventional portrayals of
women as silent towards issues. Her resistance against the exploitation done by Iron Town aligns
with the feminist stance as she aims to not only protect creation but also the well-being of the
marginalized which includes the spirits of the forest. Lady Eboshi’s leadership and the women in
their town being the core of their society show diversity in the feminism of the film. San’s
connection with the wolf leader and the women of Iron Town shows the importance of “girls
supporting girls” in the strife of environmental and societal challenges.
A critique from a feminist perspective: The strength of portraying such strong female
characters comes with showing that women, like men, also have complex values and struggle with
morality. Women also have voices and deep thoughts when it comes to decision-making and
choosing what is right for their communities. Although occasionally, San and Lady Eboshi made
morally “wrong” decisions, for example, San’s violence, isolation, and resistance to change towards
humans and Lady Eboshi’s treatment of the environment, they have still proven to be role models
to women. Irrespective of their gender, they empowered viewers to transcend societal expectations
for women. Until the end, even when Ashitaka and San confessed their feelings for each other, San
was unwavering in her stance towards humanity, wishing to protect the forest, further strengthening
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her strong character. Whilst it is common for Miyazaki films to have a blurred exploration of
themes, I wished there was a deeper explanation of the choices of the characters.
Overall, Princess Mononoke, with its comforting art style and vibrant colors, remains a
celebrated work of animation. The themes of environmentalism, women in leading roles, and their
complexity show the feminism of the film. The substantial character development of both San and
Lady Eboshi conveys the dynamic personalities of women, in stark contrast to the stereotypes of
that time. Be a reliable leader like Lady Eboshi and stay strong in your beliefs like San, as seen in the
lines:
San, The Princess Mononoke: “Ashitaka, you mean so much to me, but I can't forgive the humans for what they've
done.”
Prince Ashitaka: “I understand. You'll live in the forest, and I'll help rebuild Irontown.”