The Little Mermaid’s queer tale
Beyond its surface-level charm, The Little Mermaid’s queer tale has existed, and will always exist as the perfect world for queer desires. Its recent live-action received criticisms from positive representation of the “white redheaded” character, Ariel, to outright racism. But, it is laughably ironic since the renowned writer, Hans Christian Andersen is a closeted queer. Hence, it is a diverse story from the start.
Cishet culture’s magic spell to look natural and universal depends partly on repeating fairytales throughout our lives. And yet, the fairytale realm is also the perfect place for the resisting, transformative, and hard-to-pin-down cultures of queer folks.
“Part of Your World” is a queer metaphor, actually
Though many know the story about Ariel longing for her human prince, fewer know the real-life longing that Andersen felt. A significant aspect of the queerness in “The Little Mermaid” lies in the exploration of unconventional love and desire. Ariel’s love for the human world parallels Andersen’s love for other men. At some point in his life, Andersen had fallen for Edvard Collin, the son of his professional patron. However, Collin had assumedly not reciprocated the writer’s romantic interest, instead to Andersen’s heartbreak, marrying a woman.
At its core, it tells a story of yearning for freedom and authenticity. Ariel longs to break free from the constraints of her underwater world, desiring to explore a life beyond it. This longing for independence resonates deeply with many queer individuals who often find themselves restricted by societal norms and expectations. Like Ariel, they seek to break free from the confines of a heteronormative society to embrace their true selves.
Prior to that, Denmark’s history of denial to queer people’s rights birthed this potent theme of unspoken love. Unable to speak freely, they resorted to covert letters, coded messages and, it seems, allegorical fairy tales. By giving up Ariel’s voice, a metaphorical expression of identity and agency, it reflects the experiences of queer individuals.
Iconic Drag Queen ‘Divine’ as inspiration for sea witch Ursula
There’s no conspira-sea here.
In fact, the two minds behind the film’s music score also play a role in the queer reading of the movie. It was the first Disney collaboration between lyricist Howard Ashman, a gay man himself, and composer Alan Menken. Consequently, Ashman’s familiarity with New York’s queer culture is reflected in the birth of an iconic Disney villain, Ursula.
The captivating character of Ursula drew inspiration from the legendary drag queen, Divine. Since Drag culture and the LGBTQIA+ community have always intertwined, challenging gender norms and celebrating self-expression. Divine’s impact on popular culture paved the way for conversations about queerness, acceptance, and breaking free from societal constraints. Similarly, Ursula’s character challenges traditional gender roles with her exaggerated femininity, ultimately defying the notion of a conventional Disney villain.
Additionally, Divine’s performances were a fusion of music, comedy, and theater, captivating audiences with her talent and versatility. Ursula, too, is an entertainer at heart, using her voice and showmanship to manipulate and mesmerize others. The connection between Divine and Ursula underscores the artistic influences that shaped the character, infusing her with a unique charm.
Why does ‘The Little Mermaid’s queerness matter?”
The dearth of queer media representation is a call to share the wonder-filled, strange, and surprising worlds of queer enchantment. We have to reclaim the queer pulse that runs back through human culture, all the way to ancient times. Thus, ignore the happily-ever-after endings that imply a blissful stasis that goes on and on forever.
Furthermore, “The Little Mermaid’s” queerness challenges societal norms and pushes boundaries. By introducing queer themes and characters, the film disrupts conventional narratives and invites audiences to question and challenge heteronormative expectations.
This subversive power promotes dialogue and encourages the exploration of diverse identities and perspectives. Take them as you will: As a carefree escape, or as a politically-informed “idgaf” to hegemonic heteronormativity’s magic and wonder. Happily, fairy tales are not the property of straight culture and there is plenty of queer enchantment to go around.
Our own queer origins
Likewise, queerness has long existed within Filipino culture, and the presence of queer individuals among the Babaylan is well-documented. Also, queer Babaylans are revered for their spiritual abilities and respected for their gender nonconformity or same-sex relationships. Just like in The Little Mermaid’s Ursula, queer people were villainized and labeled as “witches” when the Philippines was colonized.
Therefore, embracing the Babaylan tradition is an act of resistance against Western influences that have stigmatized or suppressed non-heteronormative identities. By reclaiming the indigenous roots of queerness, queer Filipinos can challenge the dominant narrative that seeks to marginalize queer experiences.
The film’s emphasis on freedom, unconventional love, challenging gender roles, and self-discovery provides a relatable and empowering narrative for those who have experienced the complexities of their own queerness. Through “The Little Mermaid,” audiences can find solace, inspiration, and a reminder that their authentic selves deserve love, acceptance, and a place in the world.
