The Complex Parents of Elsa and Anna: Good People or Bad Parents?

The characters of Elsa and Anna from the beloved Disney film Frozen have captured the hearts of millions with their journey of self-discovery and their bond as sisters. However, a frequent question arises: were they truly good people or just bad parents?

Good People, Bad Parents

Are they good people or bad parents? The answer, it seems, is a bit of both. While they were undoubtedly good people, they fell short in their parenting, especially concerning Elsa's unique gifts.

Elsa and Anna's parents shielded their daughter instead of finding ways to help her with her powers. Instead of encouraging her to embrace and control her magical abilities, they suppressed them with the simple phrase "Conceal, Don't Feel."

Lost in the Shadows of Tradition

Iduna, the mother of Elsa, faced a challenging upbringing already. Having lost her brother and parents during her young years, she was adopted by Elena, who also lacked the time to offer meaningful life experience. This made matters worse for Anna, whose separation from her sister was prolonged, and their parents did little to resolve it.

The Abandoned Mothers

The worst part of their parenting was their decision to leave their daughters to fend for themselves while they embarked on an extended boat trip. How does that make them good parents? It doesn't. While they certainly tried their best to raise their daughters, the situation shows a lack of responsibility and foresight.

Struggle and Emotional Power

Yes, they tried their best to raise their daughters, but the issue lies in the fact that Elsa was born with ice magic, a trait they were not equipped to handle. They made attempts to help Elsa control her powers, but they did not understand that her powers were based on emotion, a crucial aspect that was not addressed.

Understanding and Empathy

One of the most heart-wrenching scenes in Frozen is when Anna is frozen. In that moment, Elsa understands the emotional pain her powers cause Anna. However, it takes a traumatic event for Elsa to fully grasp the depth of the effect her powers have on her sister. This realization eventually led her to control her emotions and thus control her powers.

Lessons in Parenting and Empathy

The story of Elsa and Anna's parents serves as a powerful lesson in both parenting and empathy. It highlights the importance of understanding and addressing the unique needs of children, especially those with unique talents. In today’s world, it is crucial for parents to be open and supportive of their children's growth and development, ratherthan simply suppressing their natural inclinations.

Conclusion

While Elsa and Anna's parents were undoubtedly good people in their own right, they made critical mistakes when it came to raising their daughters. Their attempt to shield Elsa from the challenges of her powers ultimately hurt both of them. However, the story of Frozen shows that even when faced with challenges, it's never too late to become the best parents you can be. The journey towards understanding and empathy is vital in the world of parenting, and it's an ongoing process.