Exploring the Psychology of the Orphan Trope in Children's Literature
Have you ever noticed how many Disney movies feature a character without a parent figure? It's not just a coincidence. The role of an orphan in children's literature serves a deeper psychological purpose and offers a wealth of narrative convenience for storytellers.
The Psychological Role of the Orphan
The orphan trope is a ubiquitous element in children's literature and media, often woven into stories for its emotional impact. These characters are frequently depicted as misunderstood, lonely, and in need of guidance. However, beyond the emotional pull, there are several psychological and narrative reasons why orphaned heroes are so prevalent.
Enabling the Plot
Enabling Convenience: Often, orphans are introduced as a convenient plot device. In these cases, the narrative is structured to easily bypass the constraints that a biological family might impose. The parents become a burden, tied down with responsibilities that hinder the protagonist's journey. This makes the orphaned hero more flexible, as they can venture out on adventures without restraint.
The Hero's Journey: In the context of Joseph Campbell's monomyth (the Hero's Journey), orphans are ideal candidates. They lack the attachments and responsibilities of a traditional family, making them more ideal for fulfilling the mythic quest. However, this depiction can sometimes be a cop-out, used as a shortcut rather than a meaningful representation of a character's development.
Optimism and Adversity
Orphans are often portrayed as having an almost superhuman capacity for hope and resilience. Their optimism stands in stark contrast to the harsh realities they face, which makes them relatable and admirable. This narrative choice is designed to elicit sympathy from the audience, as they root for the characters to overcome their circumstances.
Character Development: The ability to persevere despite difficulty can be a powerful character arc. Orphans must navigate a world filled with obstacles, fostering a sense of determination and strength. Their past, whether traumatic or simply absent, becomes a source of motivation, driving them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Mysterious Origins and Unraveling Secrets
Orphans can be used to introduce intriguing plot twists, such as the revelation that they are not actually orphans. This can add layers of complexity to the narrative, with the protagonist embarking on a quest to uncover the truth about their past. This not only drives the plot but also creates a sense of mystery and intrigue.
Parental Quest: In many cases, the search for one's parents can become the primary motivation for the character. They are driven by a desire to understand where they come from and who they are. This can lead to exciting plot developments, where the protagonist uncovers hidden truths about their heritage or confronts the villain who may be manipulating them.
Examples from Popular Literature
Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: Luke's orphan status is not just a plot convenience; it's a character-defining element. His early life as Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru's reluctant farm laborer sets up the tragic loss of his parents, which propels him into the Jedi Knights and ultimately into becoming a hero against the Empire.
Anne of Green Gables: Anne Shirley, despite her challenging past, maintains a positive outlook. Her happiness and optimism bring light to the lives of her foster parents, Matthew and Marilla, highlighting the power of hope in the face of adversity.
Taran the Wanderer in The Prydain Chronicles: Taran's quest for his parentage drives much of the plot. His journey is both literal and metaphorical, as he seeks not only to learn about his heritage but also to find a sense of belonging and identity.
Conclusion
The popularity of the orphan trope in children's literature is a powerful narrative tool. Whether enabling the plot, driving character development, or adding depth to the narrative, orphans serve multiple psychological and literary functions. While they can sometimes be viewed as a lazy shortcut, when used thoughtfully, they can create compelling and relatable characters that resonate with readers.
Keywords
orphan trope, children's literature, plot device