The Inspiration Behind He-Man and She-Ra: A Journey Through Toys, Mythology, and Feminism

He-Man and She-Ra, two iconic figures from the 1980s, have captivated the imaginations of generations. Their stories are steeped in a rich tapestry of fantasy themes, marketing strategies, and cultural influences. In this article, we will explore the inspiration behind these beloved characters, examining how toy marketing, mythology, and an evolving awareness of gender representation came together to create He-Man and She-Ra.

He-Man's Origins: A Marketing Opportunity

He-Man began as a response to the failure to produce Star Wars action figures in the mid-1970s.

Unhindered by competition from the iconic Star Wars line, the toy manufacturer Mattel decided to enter the action figure market and created a line of toys inspired by the fantasy genre. The original name for the lead character was Conan—the Barbarian—but due to concerns about adult content, the character was renamed He-Man. This decision was grounded in the marketing strategy of using a simpler name to appeal to a wider, younger audience. Mattel's choice to pivot from Conan to He-Man was strategic, ensuring that the character could represent a stronger, more heroic image suitable for a broader demographic.

She-Ra: A Response to the Male Dominance in Toys

She-Ra, the female counterpart to He-Man, emerged as a result of feedback from the market. Twenty percent of the He-Man fanbase were girls, leading to the development of She-Ra. Introduced in the movie 'The Secret of the Sword,' She-Ra was designed to appeal to this growing audience, emphasizing empowerment and strength. The character was positioned as He-Man's long-lost twin sister, blending aspects of mythology with a personal connection to the original franchise.

Mythological Influences: Drawing from Norse and Greek Legends

The characters and settings of both He-Man and She-Ra drew heavily from various mythological and fantasy sources. He-Man with his iconic sword and muscular physique embodies the archetype of a heroic warrior reminiscent of figures such as Beowulf and Hercules. Similarly, She-Ra is inspired by the tradition of strong female protagonists in classical mythology, such as Andromeda and Hermione. These influences were not only for entertainment but also to create relatable and powerful role models for children, encouraging them to see themselves as capable heroes.

Gender Representation in Media

The creation of She-Ra was a pivotal moment in the history of media, reflecting a growing awareness in the 1980s about the importance of female representation. She-Ra was designed to appeal to young girls and promote empowerment and strength. This character offered a powerful counterpoint to the predominantly male-dominated world of action figures, showcasing an alternative and equally valid vision of heroism and strength. She-Ra's design and stories were carefully crafted to inspire confidence and courage, addressing a significant gap in the entertainment industry.

Adventure, Morality, and Cultural Trends

Beyond marketing and mythology, both He-Man and She-Ra emphasized themes of good versus evil, friendship, and courage. These stories often contained moral lessons, reflecting the values that were common in children's programming of that era. The cultural trends of the late 1970s and early 1980s, influenced by films like 'Star Wars' and 'Dragon Ambassador,' played a significant role in shaping the fantasy genre. The rise of science fiction and fantasy not only provided a fertile ground for storytelling but also helped to solidify the popularity of these characters among young audiences.

The enduring popularity of He-Man and She-Ra can be attributed to a blend of marketing strategy, cultural influences, and a desire to create iconic characters. These characters not only entertained but also served as role models, offering empowerment and inspiration to a generation of young viewers.

For a deeper dive into the origin and impact of He-Man and She-Ra, you may want to watch the Netflix series 'The Toys That Made Us' season 1 episode 3, which provides additional insights into the design and development of these beloved characters.