In Disney's "Mulan," the major obstacle that Mulan must overcome is the rigid gender roles and expectations of her society, which dictate that women should not be warriors. Mulan's greatest challenge arises when she decides to take her ailing father's place in the army, disguising herself as a man to fight against the Huns. This act of defiance not only puts her life at risk but also challenges the very fabric of her culture's beliefs about femininity and honor.
Throughout the movie, Mulan faces the threat of exposure and the consequences that would come from being discovered as a woman. During the training and battles, she struggles with maintaining her disguise while proving her worth as a soldier amongst her male peers. A pivotal moment showcasing her struggle occurs during a battle against Shan Yu, where Mulan's intelligence and ingenuity lead to a critical victory. However, she ultimately risks her comrades' trust and safety by revealing her true identity, demonstrating the tension between personal honor and societal expectations (Disney, 1998).
Mulan's journey illustrates the intersection of courage and self-identity, where her greatest challenge is not only to fight external enemies but also to reconcile her personal aspirations with societal norms. This theme resonates strongly as she bravely asserts that honor is defined by one's actions rather than their gender.
Reference: Disney. (1998). Mulan.