In Disney's "Mulan," the protagonist Mulan overcomes her greatest challenge by masquerading as a man to take her ailing father's place in the army, ultimately proving her bravery and skill during the battle against the Huns. As a result of her efforts and success, Mulan gains not only the respect and recognition of her fellow soldiers and her commander, but also the profound insight that true honor comes from being true to oneself.
After Mulan saves China and reveals her true identity, she faces a crossroads where she must reconcile her personal honor with societal expectations. The respect she earns from her leaders and peers, particularly from Captain Li Shang, validates her strength and courage. Mulan learns that her worth is not defined by traditional gender roles, but rather by her actions and character. This newfound understanding of honor and identity is crucial for her, as it empowers her to embrace her individuality without fear of judgment.
This transformation not only impacts Mulan’s personal journey, but it also challenges the norms of her society, showing that valor and honor can come from defying expectations. Thus, by overcoming her greatest challenge, Mulan secures her own place in a world that values courage and authenticity above all else (Disney, 1998).