Which Disney Princess Is Aurora? The Ultimate Deep Dive

Aurora, often referred to as Sleeping Beauty, is the fourth official Disney Princess. Her defining characteristic is her prolonged slumber, induced by the curse of Maleficent, overcome only by true love’s kiss.

Unveiling Aurora: Beyond the Sleep

While she might be best known for her extended nap, Aurora’s story is much richer than just a fairytale trope. Let’s delve into what makes her a compelling, albeit somewhat passive, figure within the Disney Princess canon. She embodies grace, kindness, and a certain innocent charm that appeals to audiences across generations. But what are the intricacies of her character and her place within the Disney narrative?

Aurora’s Story: A Tale of Curses and Love

Aurora’s narrative hinges on the clash between good and evil. Cursed by Maleficent as an infant, she’s destined to prick her finger on a spinning wheel before her sixteenth birthday and fall into a deep sleep. The good fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, mitigate the curse, changing it from death to sleep, offering a glimmer of hope. To protect her, they raise her in secret as Briar Rose, shielding her from the looming danger. This separation from her royal heritage forms a key element of her identity.

Personality and Defining Traits

Aurora, despite her limited screen time, possesses a gentle and dreamy personality. She’s compassionate, evident in her interactions with forest animals, and possesses an innate curiosity about the world beyond her woodland home. While some criticize her perceived passivity, it’s crucial to remember the circumstances. Sheltered and unaware of her true identity, Aurora is largely a product of her environment. Her naivety, rather than being a flaw, reflects her innocence and vulnerability.

Significance within the Disney Princess Lineup

Aurora’s placement within the Disney Princess lineage is significant because she bridges the gap between the classic princesses and the more modern, independent heroines. She embodies the traditional fairytale damsel but also lays the groundwork for later princesses who actively shape their destinies. Aurora’s story, while reliant on external intervention, ultimately celebrates the power of love and goodness in overcoming even the darkest curses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Aurora

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to enrich your understanding of Aurora and her place in the Disney universe.

1. Why is Aurora called Sleeping Beauty?

The title “Sleeping Beauty” is derived from the classic fairytale by Charles Perrault, on which the Disney film is based. It directly references the central plot point: Aurora’s enchanted sleep. It’s a simple yet evocative title that captures the essence of her story.

2. How old is Aurora in the movie?

Aurora is 16 years old when she pricks her finger and falls into the enchanted sleep. This is a significant detail, as the curse was set to activate before her sixteenth birthday, emphasizing the vulnerability and transience of youth.

3. Who are Aurora’s fairy godmothers?

Aurora’s fairy godmothers are Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather. These three benevolent fairies play a crucial role in her life, protecting her from Maleficent’s curse and raising her in the forest as Briar Rose. They represent the forces of good and hope in the film.

4. What is Maleficent’s motivation for cursing Aurora?

Maleficent curses Aurora because she was not invited to the christening. This seemingly petty slight fuels her rage and resentment, highlighting her villainous nature and demonstrating the dangers of pride and exclusion. The exclusion underscores the theme of social decorum gone awry.

5. How does Prince Phillip break the curse?

Prince Phillip breaks the curse with a kiss of true love. This act symbolizes the power of genuine affection and underscores the fairytale trope of true love conquering all obstacles. His bravery in facing Maleficent also plays a crucial role in his success.

6. Does Aurora know she’s a princess before she’s told?

No, Aurora is unaware of her royal heritage until Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather reveal the truth to her on her sixteenth birthday. This revelation completely changes her perception of herself and her future.

7. How much screen time does Aurora actually have?

Aurora has relatively little screen time compared to other Disney Princesses. It’s estimated she only appears for around 18 minutes of the entire film. This limited presence has led to criticism and discussions about her agency as a character.

8. What makes Aurora a Disney Princess?

Aurora is classified as a Disney Princess due to her royal lineage, her appearance in a Disney animated film, and her alignment with the values and characteristics typically associated with the franchise. These include kindness, beauty, and a hopeful outlook.

9. What is Aurora’s singing voice like?

Aurora’s singing voice, provided by Mary Costa, is renowned for its lyrical quality and operatic flair. Her iconic song, “Once Upon a Dream,” showcases her vocal talent and contributes to the film’s romantic atmosphere.

10. How does Aurora’s story differ from the original fairytale?

Disney’s adaptation of “Sleeping Beauty” deviates from the original fairytale in several ways. Disney’s version softens some of the darker elements, such as the king’s initial attempts to find a suitable wife and focuses more on the fairies’ role. Disney version also gives Prince Phillip a more active role in defeating Maleficent.

11. What are some of the main themes in Aurora’s story?

The main themes in Aurora’s story include the battle between good and evil, the power of true love, the importance of family (both biological and chosen), and the inevitability of fate vs. free will. These themes resonate deeply with audiences and contribute to the enduring appeal of the film.

12. What is Aurora’s most iconic outfit?

Aurora’s most iconic outfit is arguably her dress that alternates between pink and blue, thanks to the fairies’ bickering over its color. This sartorial indecision has become a humorous and memorable symbol of the film. While she is seen in a peasant dress for most of the movie, the final, debated dress holds the cultural recognition.