Hollywood is no longer under-representing women in lead roles as there are now many movies with strong female characters, such as Hermione Granger from Harry Potter and Rey from Star Wars. Granger is a Muggle-born witch who defies expectations, while Rey is a scavenger from Jakku who discovers her Force sensitivity. Granger is bookish and intelligent, while Rey has mechanical and combat abilities, as well as Force and lightsaber proficiency. Granger undergoes significant character development, but Rey remains stable and has become a beacon of hope for young girls. Both characters have made an impact on pop culture and are excellent representations of strong female leads.

Hermione Granger vs. Rey: A Comparison of Strong Female Protagonists

For years, Hollywood has been accused of underrepresenting women in lead roles. But in recent times, things have changed for the better. Now, we see many movies with strong female leads who are not just there for decorative purposes. Two such characters that come to mind are Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter series and Rey from the Star Wars franchise. Both are powerful and independent; let’s compare them:

Background

Hermione Granger is a Muggle-born witch who is a part of the trio that saves Hogwarts from Voldemort’s clutches. She is known for her intelligence, her bravery, and her fierce loyalty towards her friends. She comes from a non-magical background but is determined to defy all odds and make a name for herself in the wizarding world.

Rey, on the other hand, is a scavenger from Jakku in the Star Wars universe. She is initially portrayed as a lone wolf determined to survive on her own. However, as the story progresses, she discovers her Force sensitivity and becomes an integral part of the Resistance against the First Order.

Skills and Abilities

Hermione Granger is known for her bookishness and her incredible intellect. She is always the first to think of a solution when a problem arises, and her extensive knowledge of spells and curses is nothing short of impressive. She is also courageous, as evidenced by her willingness to fight against the Death Eaters in the Battle of Hogwarts.

Rey, on the other hand, has a knack for mechanical repairs and hand-to-hand combat. She is also shown to be proficient in using the Force and the lightsaber, which makes her a formidable opponent for anyone who dares to cross her. She is brave and determined, never giving up even when the going gets tough.

Character Development

Hermione Granger, despite being an intelligent and capable character from the very beginning, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the series. She starts off as a rule-abiding know-it-all who is quick to judge others. However, as the story progresses, she becomes more empathetic and learns to let go of her rigidity. Her experience during the Horcrux hunt and the Battle of Hogwarts help her mature into a well-rounded person.

Rey, on the other hand, is a character who remains relatively stable throughout the franchise. She starts off as a survivor who is determined to make a life for herself. However, her experience with the Resistance helps her realize her true purpose, and she comes to terms with her Force sensitivity. She remains a force to be reckoned with, but her emotional arc is not as pronounced as Hermione’s.

Impact on Pop Culture

Hermione Granger has become a feminist icon for many in the younger generation. Her intelligence, bravery, and loyalty towards her friends have made her a role model for those who seek to defy gender roles and stereotypes. She is a character who has inspired countless girls to follow their dreams and work hard to achieve them.

Rey, likewise, has become a beacon of hope for young girls who want to see themselves represented in popular media. Her grit and determination have inspired many to take up martial arts and learn the intricacies of the lightsaber. Her portrayal, especially in the newest trilogy, has been a refreshing change from the trope of women who are helpless damsels in distress.

Conclusion

While Hermione Granger and Rey have slightly different origins and skillsets, they share many similarities. Both are smart, capable, and determined characters who have made a significant impact on pop culture. However, while Hermione’s character had a more pronounced emotional arc, Rey’s impact on young girls in the Star Wars universe cannot be overstated. Both characters are excellent representations of strong female leads who are not defined by their gender but are instead defined by their actions and their personalities.