15 most empowering female Disney characters of all time
By Andi Ortiz
5. Esmeralda
Esmeralda isn’t technically a Disney princess, but she is as fierce, brave and empowering as one. Living life as a gypsy means living life on the run. So unfortunately, her defense skills were born out of necessity. But they sure came in handy. Esmeralda had next to no problem fending off Captain Phoebus’ sneak attack.
She was quick, improvising with a candle stand as a weapon. And she wielded it with skill that even Phoebus couldn’t match. Of course, any good hand-to-hand (or…sword-to-sword?) combat has good banter, and Esmeralda is no exception. When Phoebus notes that she fights “almost” as well as a man, Esmeralda bites back with “Funny, I was going to say the same thing about you!” Not only was it a withering comeback, but it also showed young girls they can be skilled fighters, too.
Beyond her abilities to take care of herself, Esmeralda also had an aptitude for taking care of others. Esmeralda is the only one to help Quasimodo, and treat him as any human should be treated. Her entire “I Want” song is about wanting the people – specifically the people who look and feel different – to feel safe and cared for. All she wants is to help the outcasts.