The Little Mermaid: The Failed Rigidity of Royal Protocols and the Reality of Family Bonds
The Little Mermaid: The Failed Rigidity of Royal Protocols and the Reality of Family Bonds
The tale of The Little Mermaid is a timeless classic that has captivated the hearts of children and adults alike through the ages. Two of the most iconic interactions in this story revolve around the meetings between Ariel and King Triton, her father. However, these meetings differ significantly based on the source material - Disney's 1989 adaptation and Hans Christian Andersen's original tale. This article explores the nuances of these encounters and their implications for the overall narrative, highlighting the importance of faith and family bonds.
Meetings in Disney's 1989 Adaptation
Disney's 1989 adaptation of The Little Mermaid portrays a straightforward and efficient interaction between Ariel and her father King Triton. After Ariel saves Prince Eric from drowning, she is discovered by his crew, and as a result, she is brought before her father. In this version, King Triton immediately recognizes his daughter's bravery and selflessness, commending her actions with a brief conversation.
However, this moment is fleeting, as the conversation quickly departs from the narrative, almost as if it were a hiccup in the otherwise smooth and rigid protocol of the royal family. This adherence to protocol suggests a level of detachment and formality that may belie the deeper familial ties that exist.
Meeting in Hans Christian Andersen's Original Tale
In contrast, Andersen's original tale provides a rich and detailed account of Ariel's interactions with her father. According to Andersen, Ariel's last known encounter with King Triton was absent, as she lived with an evil sea witch for several years. Here, King Triton plays a more significant role, representing a figure who is both distant and intriguing. The sea witch, who stole Ariel's voice for several years, plays a pivotal role in the story, ultimately leading to Ariel's dreams of true love being realized.
Eventually, after years of separation, Ariel reunites with King Triton. This reunion is a symbolic moment, marking not only her transformation into a mermaid but also her rekindled relationship with her father. It is during this reunion that they officially meet again, having spent so much time apart, each unaware of the other's whereabouts or even their existence.
The Common Thread: Faith and Unwavering Loyalty
Despite the differences in the two versions, one commonality stands out: both stories emphasize the importance of faith and unwavering loyalty. In the Disney adaptation, even a brief scene of recognition highlights the daughter's bravery and selflessness, reinforcing the theme of her character. In the original tale, the long separation and eventual reunification underscore the enduring nature of familial love and loyalty, even in the face of adversities.
Both narratives ultimately convey a message of perseverance and the power of faith. No matter the version of the story, it is clear that through these themes, the characters are able to navigate their challenges and ultimately find their way back to each other.
Conclusion
The Little Mermaid is a story that transcends time and provides a poignant illustration of the dynamics between a daughter and her father. Whether through the royal protocols of the Disney adaptation or the more personal and emotional narrative of Hans Christian Andersen's version, the interaction between Ariel and King Triton highlights the enduring importance of family bonds and the faith that keeps us connected. This tale reminds us that no matter the odds, persevering and maintaining our faith can lead us to our true destinies.