By Alyssa Kropp
It’s easy for find male role models in the history books and on TV. When it comes to women however, the history books aren’t as thick and the movie screens are only beginning to show the wealth of female power. Below we take a look at 10 of the fictional female characters that showcase qualities that everyone, no matter their gender, should admire.
1. Alanna from Song of the Lioness Quartet
Alanna is strong headed, tough, and doesn’t give up. She pretends to be a boy to follow her dream of being a knight, which allows her brother to go to school to be a magician. While she isn’t perfect, her tenacity, spirit, and compassion are inspiring for girls everywhere.
2. Mulan
In a similar vein as Alanna, Mulan has to deal with a sea of challenges, self-endangerment being the most obvious. While everyone thinks of the Disney movie, she was originally created in the 6th century song as a kick-butt 17 year-old who was already a martial arts expert and then went on to win a bunch of wars in her father’s place.
3. Katniss Everdeen
Katniss is tough. Although she has a hard exterior and is quick to act, she is a passionate, strong character that stands up for her family when they need it most. She is athletic, determined, and you do not want to mess with her.
4. Hermione Granger
You can’t help but love this know-it-all, particularly since she shows up time and again to save Ron and Harry. Hermione is always there for her friends while using her skills to solve complex and real life problems. She makes being smart cool.
5. Elizabeth Bennet from Pride & Prejudice
Strong. Independent. Determined. Knows what she wants. All things that can be skewed in a bad light, but as one of Jane Austen’s most popular characters, time has shown her to be a kind friend, a compassionate sister, and a strong woman.
6. Ellie Arroway
Based on Jill Tarter, a female astronomer who worked at SETI, Ellie is determined, patient, and principled. Also, she goes to meet an alien for the first time in history, which definitely gives her #ladyboss status.
7. Rory Gilmore
A self proclaimed book worm, we get to watch Rory grow as viewers of the TV show Gilmore Girls. Throughout the series she never tries to be anyone else, and is always the quirky girl many could relate to. She makes mistakes, triumphs, fails, and is utterly human.
8. Jane Eyre
Complex and serious, Jane suffered extremely through Charlotte Bronte’s novel but relied on herself to get back up. Her character is intense and independent, never giving up despite her low social standing.
9. Brienne of Tarth
Brienne goals are for respect, acceptance and a chance to prove herself. She is a female in a traditionally male role, and is constantly barraged for it. Her differences and her power in overcoming them are remarkable.
10. Storm
African princess? Check. Leader of the X-men? Check. Controlling the weather? Check. Seems like she’s a one of a kind, powerful leader. Who wouldn’t want her as a role model?
Cover image courtesy of Shutterstock.
comments