Exploring Themes of Self-Growth and Determination in How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

Released in 2010 and directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, How to Train Your Dragon quickly became a beloved animated film, captivating audiences with its breathtaking visuals, compelling characters, and resonant themes. Based on Cressida Cowell’s eponymous book series, the film by DreamWorks Animation stands out not only for its entertainment value but also for its depth and the sophisticated treatment of complex themes. Set in a mythical Viking world, How to Train Your Dragon tells the story of a young boy, Hiccup, who befriends a dragon, challenging the long-standing conflict between humans and dragons. This essay delves into the rich narrative and thematic elements of How to Train Your Dragon, exploring the intricacies of its plot, character development, and its major themes on the background of European elements portrayed in the film, reflecting their interpretation through the lens of US-American mass-media and targeting global audiences.

Plot Summary

The story unfolds on the island of Berk, a mythical Viking village and a rugged place plagued by dragon attacks, How to Train Your Dragon follows the journey of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a teenage Viking who is struggling to fit into his tribe’s long-standing tradition of dragon hunting while simultaneously fiercely determined to prove himself as a dragon slayer. Hiccup, voiced by Jay Baruchel, is the son of Stoick the Vast (voiced by Gerard Butler), the village chief, who embodies the ideals of strength, bravery, and dragon slaying. In addition, Hiccup is more inventive and intellectual than physically imposing, which leads to frequent misunderstandings and ridicule from his peers and father.

The story takes a pivotal turn when Hiccup injures a rare and feared dragon, the Night Fury, during a dragon attack on Berk. When he later finds the dragon trapped in the forest, he cannot bring himself to kill it, and instead, befriends the dragon, whom he names Toothless. During the subsequent development of their bond, Hiccup gradually discovers that dragons are not the vicious mindless killer creatures his tribe believes them to be, and learns about the dragons’ true nature; using his newfound knowledge, Hiccup challenges the way his village perceives dragons, which eventually leads his village to a new understanding and coexistence with the dragons, transforming their relationship from adversaries to allies.

Characters’ Analysis

Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III: Hiccup is the protagonist and an unconventional hero: a skinny and intellectual boy who defies traditional Viking norms of masculinity – and generally speaking, prevailing standards of masculine heroism. Driven by curiosity, he often tinkers with inventions and excursions of exploration to unusual places. His journey is one of self-discovery and courage, as he learns to trust his instincts, to embrace his unique skills, to allow his empathetic nature to flourish and challenge the status quo: in How to Train Your Dragon, Hiccup’s growth is central to the narrative, as he embodies the struggle between individual identity and societal expectations and metamorphoses in the course of his development from a misfit into a leader who changes the fate of his entire village as well as of the surrounding ecosystem

Stoick the Vast: Hiccup’s father and the chief of Berk, Stoick, is a formidable and traditional Viking chieftain, representing traditional Viking values of strength and bravery while preserving the old ways of life and the pressure of family legacy. His initial disappointment in Hiccup’s unconventional approach gives way later on to pride and acceptance as he witnesses his son’s courage and innovation. Stoick’s development is deeply significant as he transitions from a figure of authority and adherence to tradition to one who learns to accept and support his son’s unique path, while dynamically reflecting the tension between tradition and change.

Toothless: The Night Fury dragon who becomes Hiccup’s companion is both a symbol and a character. Hiccup’s loyal companion, Toothless starts off as the misunderstood and the unknown: his initially fearsome appearance contrasts drastically with his gentle and intelligent nature, bringing forth the maligned aspects of the unknown and the necessity to explore it non-judgmentally. His bond with Hiccup is central to the film, highlighting themes of empathy, trust, mutual respect and the breaking of barriers between different beings and different layers of the world.

Astrid Hofferson: Voiced by America Ferrera, Astrid is a fierce and skilled warrior who initially distrusts Hiccup, doubting his methods. Later, as she witnesses his bond with Toothless and the positive changes he brings, she becomes his ally, confidant, staunch supporter and love interest. Astrid’s character development from skepticism to admiration underscores the film’s message about the value of open-mindedness, courage and empathy.

Somewhat at the intersection between a primary and a secondary character, Gobber the Belch (voiced by Craig Ferguson) is the village blacksmith and Hiccup’s mentor, who provides comic relief while also embodying the supportive figure who encourages Hiccup’s inventive spirit, while illustrating the importance of mentorship and acceptance of non-conformity. In the same train of thoughts, the supporting cast, including other young Vikings like Fishlegs (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), Snotlout (Jonah Hill), and the twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut (Kristen Wiig and T.J. Miller), add depth and humor to the story: initially, they display stereotypical Viking traits but gradually learn to appreciate Hiccup’s perspective and each of them presents different aspects of Viking culture, thus contributing to the film’s exploration of individuality and community as well as of unity and cooperation – and the necessity of accepting each other unconditionally.

Major Themes

Masculinity

How to Train Your Dragon offers a nuanced take on masculinity – and discretely challenges some of its traditional features. Traditional Viking masculinity is depicted through physical strength and prowess in battle – to which Hiccup’s intellectualism and empathy profoundly contrast. Hiccup’s journey redefines these notions, suggesting that true strength lies in understanding, empathy, and challenging harmful traditions. Stoick’s ultimate acceptance of Hiccup’s pathway signifies a broader acceptance of diverse forms of masculinity. In doing so, How to Train Your Dragon promotes a broader definition of masculinity that values emotional intelligence and compassion in addition to already prevailing characteristics.

Family Legacy

The pressures of family legacy and of living up to familial expectations is a central theme, particularly through Hiccup’s relationship with Stoick. Hiccup’s struggle to meet his father’s assumptions and his eventual forging of his own pathway highlight the tension between adhering to tradition and embracing change – but he eventually manages to gain his father’s respect. The resolution of this tension suggests a harmonious balance between respecting heritage, honoring tradition and fostering individuality, discovering and embracing one’s own identity.

Cultural Heritage

Rich in elements of Norse culture and mythology, such as the depiction of dragons and Viking society, How to Train Your Dragon relies heavily on North-European historical legacy: for example, the depiction of Berk, with its rugged landscape and Viking architecture, immerses the audience in a world that feels authentically ancient and nostalgically European, thus blending authenticity with accessibility, as marketing requirements for a global audience. Moreover, the film contrasts the old ways of dragon slaying with the new era of coexistence, suggesting that cultural heritage can evolve, adapt and transcend history.

Empathy Towards Animals

A major theme is the non-violent approach to non-human living beings – such as animals, exemplified in the shift from fearing to understanding of dragons. Hiccup’s bond with Toothless challenges the village’s perception of dragons as mere beasts to be feared and killed, and Toothless encourages viewers to reconsider their attitudes toward animals and the environment, advocating for empathy and coexistence, for a more compassionate and symbiotic relationship with nature, emphasizing the importance of seeing beyond fear and prejudice.

Individuality and Identity

Hiccup’s journey of self-discovery is simultaneously a journey of self-acceptance, of asserting his individuality and of finding in oneself the courage to defy societal norms. His inventive nature and unique way of addressing problems set him apart in a society that values conformity. How to Train Your Dragon celebrates Hiccup’s individuality, underscores the importance of staying true to oneself, thus encouraging viewers to embrace their true selves and to challenge societal expectations.

European Elements in US-American Mass Media Portrayal and Interpretation

How to Train Your Dragon is deeply rooted in European elements, particularly those of Scandinavian and Viking culture. The film’s aesthetic, including its setting, character design, and narrative elements, draws heavily from Norse mythology and medieval Scandinavian life. The depiction of Berk, with its fjords, forests, and traditional Viking huts, provides a picturesque and romanticized view of Northern Europe. On the kther hand, US-American mass-media often reinterpret European cultural elements through a lens that emphasizes universal themes and accessible narratives. In How to Train Your Dragon, the Viking culture is depicted with a blend of historical accuracy and creative liberties. The film balances the rugged, stoic nature of Viking life and culture with emphasis on bravery, community as well as with the whimsical and fantastical elements of dragon lore, and orchestrates it with a focus on universal themes of acceptance and personal growth, making it appealing to a broad audience. Moreover, the visual design of Berk, with its mountaineous coastline, steep cliffs, and wooden structures, reflects Scandinavian geography and architecture. This setting enhances the film’s immersive quality and grounds its fantastical elements in a recognizable European context with almost familiar landscapes. The characters themselves exhibit traits associated with European storytelling, such as the emphasis on honor, family, and heroism, which are in turn balanced with more contemporary, individualistic values that resonate with American audiences. Particularly the character of Hiccup, while rooted in the context of the Viking society, personifyes qualities that resonate with contemporary American values, such as individualism, innovation, and empathy. This fusion of European cultural heritage with modern, universal themes allows the film to bridge cultural gaps and engage viewers from diverse backgrounds. Thus, while rooted in European cultural heritage, How to Train Your Dragon adapts these elements to create a story that is both specific and universal. The film’s success lies in its ability to blend cultural specificity with themes that are globally relevant.

The timelessness of the hero’s journey

How to Train Your Dragon is more than just an animated adventure: it displays a rich tapestry of themes and character arcs which explore deep and resonant issues – and creatively tackles the evergreen motiv of discovering oneself and staying true to oneself. Through the lens of Viking culture and the fantastical element of dragons, the film offers a nuanced and compelling narrative ranging from visions on masculinity, family legacy and cultural heritage, until fresh perspectives on environment and non-human elements, as well as individuality, identity and coexistence. It also powerfully showcases the way in which European cultural elements can be effectively and thoughtfully portrayed and reinterpreted through US-American mass media, and therefore integrated and adapted for global audiences, in order to create stories both specific and universal. In particular, Hiccup’s journey from an outcast to a hero who bridges the gap between two worlds serves as an inspiring narrative of growth, understanding, and the transformative power of compassion, encompassed within the power of storytelling able to transcend cultural boundaries. Lastly, through Hiccup’s trajectory, viewers are encouraged to embrace their unique qualities, to challenge familial and social norms, and to cultivate empathy and understanding – which turns How to Train Your Dragon into a timeless inspirational tale.