10 Reasons Why The Hyenas Are The True Heroes Of The Lion King
1. Working Class Heroes
Traditional heroes are, by their function in a fairytale story, limited in their characterization. Their overriding principles must be noble, and ethical, and above all, good. Their personalities are often blank slates - the better for kids to project themselves onto. And since any Disney hero must be victorious at the end of his or her story, any character flaws must be minimal and surmountable for there to be a ‘happily ever after.’
But the reality is more complex. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and the hyenas are the definite underdog heroes of The Lion King - advocating for themselves, respecting the weakest amongst their own, and committing the unseemly work that must be done in the name of peace and stability.