In Disney's "Mulan," the hero's "Ordinary World" is set in ancient China, where she lives in a modest village with her family. Mulan's normal life is characterized by traditional gender roles; she is expected to adhere to societal norms, which include responsibilities like helping her family at home and preparing to marry. Her character is introduced as someone who struggles with the expectations placed upon her, feeling out of place in a world that values conformity and traditional roles for women.
For instance, during an early scene in the film, Mulan is seen preparing for her matchmaker appointment, where she is anxious about living up to her family's expectations. This moment illustrates her internal conflict between her true identity and the societal pressures surrounding her (Cook). Mulan’s dissatisfaction with her ordinary world sets the stage for her journey of self-discovery and heroism as she later decides to disguise herself as a man to take her ailing father’s place in the army.
By showcasing her ordinary life filled with societal expectations and pressures, the film builds a strong foundation for Mulan's transformative journey (Cook).
Works Cited: Cook, David. Understanding Disney: The Manufacture of Fantasy. New York: Routledge, 1996.