Confucianism in ‘Mulan’: Critical Essay

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Introduction:

Disney’s animated film ‘Mulan’ is a beloved tale that explores themes of bravery, honor, and self-discovery. Within the narrative, elements of Confucianism, an ancient Chinese philosophy, can be identified. This essay critically examines the portrayal of Confucianism in ‘Mulan,’ evaluating its representation, potential implications, and the broader cultural context. While the film incorporates certain Confucian ideals, it also presents a nuanced perspective that challenges traditional gender roles and highlights individual agency.

Body:

Filial Piety and Respect:

Confucianism places great importance on filial piety, which involves showing respect and obedience towards one’s parents and ancestors. In ‘Mulan,’ the protagonist’s decision to join the army in place of her father initially challenges this Confucian value. However, Mulan’s actions can also be seen as an expression of filial piety, as she demonstrates her love and loyalty to her family by risking her life to protect her father’s honor.

Gender Roles and Social Hierarchy:

Confucianism traditionally emphasizes strict gender roles and a hierarchical social structure. ‘Mulan’ subtly challenges these norms by depicting a young woman who defies societal expectations and disguises herself as a man to fight in the army. The film suggests that personal merit and courage should be valued over gender or social status, thereby subverting Confucian ideals in favor of individual agency and equality.

Honor and Duty:

Confucianism emphasizes the importance of honor and fulfilling one’s duties to maintain social harmony. In ‘Mulan,’ honor and duty are central themes as the protagonist strives to bring honor to her family by successfully serving in the army. However, the film also explores the notion of honor beyond societal expectations, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and acting with integrity.

Education and Scholarly Pursuits:

Confucianism places significant emphasis on education and the pursuit of knowledge. While ‘Mulan’ does not explicitly delve into scholarly pursuits, it highlights the intellectual capabilities of the protagonist, who employs her intelligence and resourcefulness to overcome challenges. This portrayal aligns with the Confucian value of valuing intellectual growth and suggests that education can empower individuals to contribute to society in various ways.

Harmony and Balance:

Confucianism emphasizes the attainment of harmony and balance in personal and societal relationships. While ‘Mulan’ does not explicitly address this concept, the film portrays the importance of teamwork, unity, and mutual respect among the soldiers. It suggests that achieving harmony can be achieved through collective effort and understanding.

Conclusion:

Confucianism’s influence on ‘Mulan’ is evident through the exploration of themes such as filial piety, honor, duty, and respect. However, the film also presents a nuanced perspective that challenges traditional gender roles and emphasizes individual agency and personal growth. By incorporating Confucian ideals while subverting others, ‘Mulan’ creates a narrative that promotes values of bravery, integrity, and the pursuit of one’s true identity. The film invites viewers to question societal norms and consider the importance of individual values and personal growth in the face of societal expectations.

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