Princess Phases

Who is in the First Wave of Disney Princesses?

Snow White, Cinderella, and Aurora (1937–1959).

What title did Dr. Robyn Muir give to the First Wave?

The Passive Victims.

Why are the First Wave princesses categorized together?

They share characteristics of being domestic, passive, victims of circumstances, and desiring a romantic relationship as their ultimate fulfillment.

Who is in the Second Wave of Disney Princesses?

Eilonwy, Ariel, Belle, and Jasmine (1985–1992).

What title did Dr. Robyn Muir give to the Second Wave?

The Lost Dreamers.

Why are the Second Wave princesses categorized together?

They are assertive, rebellious, and brave with clear goals, but their original dreams are lost or policed once a romantic relationship is introduced.

Why is Princess Eilonwy from "The Black Cauldron" significant in Muir's research?

She is an excluded "forgotten princess" omitted from the official Disney Princess franchise, but included in the phenomenon because she shares Second Wave traits with leadership elements.

Who is in the Third Wave of Disney Princesses?

Pocahontas, Mulan, and Kida (1995–2001).

What title did Dr. Robyn Muir give to the Third Wave?

The Active Leaders.

Why are the Third Wave princesses categorized together?

They are assertive leaders who negotiate, communicate, and drive their own narratives, often faced with a choice between romantic relationships and leadership/duty.

What unique narrative choice is presented to Pocahontas and Mulan in the Third Wave?

A "women can't have it all" choice where Pocahontas chooses leadership over romance and Mulan chooses family duty over an imperial leadership position.

Who is in the Fourth Wave of Disney Princesses?

Tiana and Rapunzel (2009–2010).

What title did Dr. Robyn Muir give to the Fourth Wave?

The Sacrificing Dreamers.

Why are the Fourth Wave princesses categorized together?

They are highly determined with specific personal dreams, but knowingly sacrifice their original dreams for a love interest (and are rewarded with both at the end).

Who is in the Fifth Wave of Disney Princesses?

Merida, Anna, Elsa, and Moana (2012–2016).

What title did Dr. Robyn Muir give to the Fifth Wave?

The Innovative Leaders.

Why are the Fifth Wave princesses categorized together?

They showcase strong female support systems and platonic relationships, demonstrate active leadership, and largely remove or subvert traditional romantic plotlines.

How does merchandise dominance differ between the Disney Princess Franchise and the Phenomenon?

The Fifth Wave dominates merchandise overall due to Anna and Elsa, but without them, the First and Second Waves dominate the official franchise products.