Kick Ass Heroines: Part #4
Xena the Warrior Princess
Wednesdays I devote the blog conversation to what I love about my genre — fantasy — and what I think y’all love about it, too.
Today I continue my exploration of the Kick Ass Heroines, like Xena, that I love in books, movies and TV shows, and highlight more of their characteristics. I’d love to know what you think! Did I leave any out?! What would you add to this list?
Before I go there, I just wanted to say that I do value softness and vulnerability in women and girls. I guess, though, I’m rallying against helplessness.
I believe we are all resourceful, and sometimes asking for help is the most resourceful, brave and courageous thing we can do.
More Characteristics of a Kick Ass Heroine (other characteristics mentioned here)
- Can rally her friends behind a cause
- Is brave enough to ask for help
- Stands up and speaks out against injustice
- Helps those in need
- Isn’t afraid to do what it takes even if what it takes is a stretch, new, or scary, especially if it’s scary
- Faces her fears
- Honest to at least herself
- Searches for the truth to best of her abilities
- Owns up to her mistakes
- Works hard to cultivate and maintain her abilities
What do you think? Are there more you’d add? Thanks!
Onward and forward!
In the meantime, check out Henrietta The Dragon Slayer:
A reviewer said: “… The witty dialogue and good story line makes this book hard to put down. It’s really fun to read. It’s also very satisfying to read about a girl heroine fighting the good fight…”
Enjoy!
Available here:
Nice list here. 🙂 I love kick-ass heroines. Just LOVE them!!!! The darker the better, too. I love vulnerability in a heroine, too. Makes for a complex character.
Great post!
My favorite kick-ass heroine is Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I love it when the heroines are not only powerful, but smart, too. Another favorite of mine was Marion Ravenwood, the drink-winning face-slapping heroine of Indiana Jones, Raiders of the Lost Ark. The first Jones sequel lost the heroine appeal when they switched to a nail-breaking help-me-screeching blonde. I was glad when the blonde in the third Indiana Jones was tough and smart. The main character in Henrietta is also an awesome kick-ass gal!
Okay, add sassy, take charge kind of gal who will forge ahead when she knows she’s right. She doesn’t care who she has to fight through when she’s out to champion the innocent. I so agree with you on the Indiana Jones series, Ezra.
Bobbye
Hi I like to see a sense of humor in my leads. It helps break the tension. Lynne
I believe the most important value a woman can have, regardless of being a heroine, is the ability to go it alone. They don’t need a man or woman, but may want one. They are singular unto themselves first, then can bring in others around them. This is not dissing love and all its values. This is how most men see themselves, even if it’s not true. It’s only lately that more and more women allow themselves to be seen in this light. I support it as do all the female characters in my books. In short, I believe in strong women. Being strong, whether male or female really has no affect on the opposite sex. In my view, it strengthens relationship because then, instead of two becoming one, two become a third completely independent entity.
I agree with the doing the right thing, even if its scary.
Good point Janice. I notice that I don’t always know what the right thing is, but I do know what’s scary. LOL
Thanks Stuart for comment. It’s interesting that you picked the ability to go it alone. I do that’s important along with the ability to ask for help.
Oh thank you Lynne! Humor is such a wonderful trait! I like using humor in my stories but it’s often expressed by a sidekick.
Love it Bobbye! Sassy is such a great word to describe a bold a little-out-there gal!
Ezra: Yeah Buffy! I remember Marion. She rocks! Thanks for the plug, sweetie!
Thanks Lynn! Strong and vulnerable — they seem more real that way.