The story of Ariel, the vibrant and adventurous mermaid princess, has captivated audiences since Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” was first released in 1989. While much of the focus has been on Ariel’s journey, her relationships, and her transformation, there has always been a lingering question about her family background, particularly about what happened to Ariel’s mom. This article delves into the mystery surrounding the fate of Queen Athena, Ariel’s mother, and how her story has been revealed through various media over the years.
The Mystery of Ariel’s Mother
For years, fans of “The Little Mermaid” were left to wonder about the absence of Ariel’s mother from the film. The original movie does not mention her at all, leaving a gap in the family’s history. It wasn’t until later that Disney would address this question, providing answers that would add depth to Ariel’s backstory.
Initial Speculations
Before any official story was released, fans speculated about the fate of Ariel’s mother. Some thought she might have been captured by humans, others believed she could have passed away due to natural causes, and some even theorized that she left the underwater kingdom of Atlantica for reasons unknown.
Disney’s Revelation
It wasn’t until the release of “The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning,” a direct-to-video prequel, that Disney shed light on the fate of Ariel’s mother. The film, which came out in 2008, provided a canonical backstory that satisfied the curiosity of many fans.
Queen Athena’s Story
“The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning” introduces Queen Athena, Ariel’s mother, and the wife of King Triton. The film reveals her character and the impact of her life and death on the kingdom of Atlantica.
Character and Personality
Queen Athena is portrayed as a loving and caring mother to her seven daughters, with a special bond with Ariel, who shares her love for music. She is also shown to be a supportive partner to King Triton, sharing a deep love that is central to the harmony of their underwater realm.
The Tragic Event
The prequel discloses that Athena was killed by pirates when Ariel was very young. The event occurred during an outing on Athena’s and Triton’s anniversary, where a pirate ship approached and Athena was crushed by the ship while trying to save a music box that Triton had given her.
Impact on King Triton and Atlantica
Athena’s death had profound effects on King Triton and the kingdom. Triton, stricken with grief, banned music from Atlantica, as it reminded him too much of his beloved wife. This ban on music sets the stage for the conflict in “Ariel’s Beginning,” as Ariel discovers her love for music in a kingdom where it is forbidden.
Exploring the Depth of Ariel’s Character
The story of Ariel’s mother adds a layer of depth to Ariel’s character, explaining some of her motivations and desires in “The Little Mermaid.”
Ariel’s Love for Music
Understanding that her mother also had a passion for music helps to explain Ariel’s own musical talent and love for song, which is a central theme in the original movie.
Rebellion Against Triton’s Rules
Ariel’s rebellious nature and her challenge to her father’s rules can also be seen as a subconscious connection to her mother’s legacy, as she fights for the right to enjoy music just as her mother did.
Desire for the Human World
Additionally, the tragedy of Athena’s death at the hands of pirates may contribute to Ariel’s fascination with the human world, as she seeks to understand and bridge the gap between land and sea.
The Cultural Impact of Revealing Athena’s Fate
The revelation of Queen Athena’s story has had a significant impact on the “Little Mermaid” franchise and its fans.
Expansion of the “Little Mermaid” Universe
The backstory of Ariel’s mother has expanded the universe of “The Little Mermaid,” giving fans more content to explore and deepening the lore of the beloved characters.
Fan Reactions
Fans have had mixed reactions to the story of Athena. Some appreciate the closure and additional context it provides, while others feel it was an unnecessary addition to the original tale.
Influence on Future Disney Storytelling
The decision to explore the fate of Ariel’s mother reflects a broader trend in Disney storytelling, where the company revisits and expands upon the backstories of classic characters, providing new angles and depth to their stories.
Queen Athena’s Legacy in “The Little Mermaid”
Although she is not present in the original film, Queen Athena’s legacy is an integral part of the “Little Mermaid” story, influencing the characters and the world they inhabit.
Influence on Ariel’s Personality
Athena’s love for music and her untimely death play a significant role in shaping Ariel’s personality and her actions throughout the series.
King Triton’s Character Development
The loss of Athena also serves as a crucial element in King Triton’s character development, explaining his overprotectiveness and his initial aversion to humans.
Themes of Loss and Healing
The story of Athena introduces themes of loss and healing into the “Little Mermaid” narrative, adding emotional depth and resonance to the characters’ journeys.
Conclusion
The story of what happened to Ariel’s mom, Queen Athena, is a poignant addition to the “Little Mermaid” saga. It provides a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations, enriching the overall narrative. While the original film left this question unanswered, the prequel “Ariel’s Beginning” offers a tragic yet meaningful explanation that has become an integral part of the franchise’s lore.
FAQ Section
- Who is Ariel’s mother?
Ariel’s mother is Queen Athena, who was the wife of King Triton and the mother of Ariel and her six sisters. - How did Ariel’s mother die?
Ariel’s mother, Queen Athena, died in a tragic accident involving pirates, as revealed in the prequel “The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning.” - Does Ariel’s mother appear in the original “The Little Mermaid” movie?
No, Queen Athena does not appear in the original movie. Her story is explored in the prequel “Ariel’s Beginning.”
In conclusion, the story of Ariel’s mother, Queen Athena, has filled a gap in the “Little Mermaid” narrative, providing fans with a richer understanding of the beloved characters and their world. Her legacy continues to influence the stories and themes within the franchise, proving that even characters not present on screen can have a lasting impact on a story’s heart and soul.
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