What turns a woman into a heroine? Is it the challenges she faces or her willingness to go through them? Whatever it is, we can’t ignore the many female characters in American literature that have inspired thousands of readers throughout time.
These girls and women are different from each other. But they do have one thing in common: their strength and intelligence have made their stories timeless. Whether you like them or not, the women on this have made their way into history, so let’s explore together who they are and what they did.
Nancy Drew (By Edward Stratemeyer)
Nancy Drew was first conceived by American writer Edward Stratemeyer around the 1930s and she’s remained a role model for many young children. Despite she’s still in high school, she manages to prove that a girl can solve mysteries using her own skills and bravery.
She’s a determined detective that doesn’t fear getting into the scariest places in the search for the truth. Although she’s very independent, she’s humble enough to know when to ask for the help of others. She was truly a role model for young girls who aspired to have her fearless attitude and her goal-oriented mindset.
But Nancy wasn’t just a pretty face in a dress, her qualities have inspired powerful women like Laura Bush, Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, Sonia Sotomayor, etc. She teaches us to pursue our ambitions without fear and with optimism.
Jo March(By Louisa May Alcott)
American writer Louisa May Alcott gave life to one of the most remarkable examples of a strong female character: Josephine March. Jo march challenges gender stereotypes of the 19th century in a way that only she is able to.
She is incredibly bold and honest. She struggles with the idea of marriage and love in such a complex manner that makes her a very interesting character. But what truly makes her amazing is her immense love for her family and her desire to become a writer. It was a seemingly impossible dream, but she somehow manages to achieve it.
Jo March’s adventures in the complexities of her patriarchal society have made many people wish to have that level of bravery and confidence. A proof that we should not doubt our talents, even if society tells us to do otherwise.
Scout Finch(By Harper Lee)
Harper Lee was born in Alabama, and in the year 1962, she crafted the beautiful story of _To Kill a Mockingbird. _Scout is not an ordinary little girl from the 20th century, she isn’t afraid to fight and to speak up her mind regardless of what other people think.
Scout’s upbringing makes her a passionate little girl who follows her heart and her desires. We see her blooming from her childhood innocence and experience her first encounters with social hypocrisies and dilemmas. Her nature makes her a lovable and unforgettable character in the book.
Scout isn’t submissive, she climbs trees and speaks with full honesty. She teaches us to pursue what’s right for us, even when that can get us into a lot of trouble.
Dorothy Gale(By L. Frank Baum)
The eternal classic novel of _The Wonderful Wizard of Oz_ was first conceived in the mind of American author L. Frank Baum. This story has inspired so popular culture in so many ways where its lessons are still relevant today. Dorothy is a joyful young woman in search of adventure.
She displays many traditional feminine characteristics in a way that helps her achieve her goals. She is kind, loving, curious, graceful, and knows how to use the resources around her. Dorothy’s innocence and petulance don’t hold her back from her mission, she’s able to set her weaknesses aside and triumph.
Despite getting trapped by tornadoes and sent to quests by the people she encounters, she has the sufficient bravery and determination to go through these challenges and find her way home. Dorothy has come to teach us that good people can also triumph in this world, displaying innocence and joy can get you to a lot of places.
Katniss Everdeen(By Suzanne Collins)
When American writer Suzanne Collins wrote the story of Katniss Everdeen, she had no idea how much influence her intrepid female character would have in the early 21st century. Katniss Everdeen was born in the poorest district of the dystopian Panem, a country divided into twelve districts working endlessly to please the Capitol.
Katniss’s courage and actions make her the silent hero of those who wish for a better future. Without even noticing, she becomes the leader of a revolution that will bring back hope for thousands of people. She is both physically and mentally strong, facing several challenges that will try to squeeze the life and sanity out of her.
How can you not love a fearless woman with a bow and arrow willing to challenge authority? Katniss teaches us that is possible for anybody to become a leader of positive change and a better future.
Conclusion
The best heroines and female characters in American literature are filled with important life lessons that we should all aspire to learn. It’s always a pleasure to read about smart, charismatic, and adventurous women who follow her complex nature throughout their life. Generation of strong females will always be grateful for what these heroines taught them.