10 Reasons Why The Hyenas Are The True Heroes Of The Lion King
7. The Hyenas Are Victims Of Systemic Stereotypes
When Simba goes to the Elephant Graveyard against his father’s wishes, it’s because he’s curious and wants to impress Nala. Simba sees misery and dilapidated despair, and what’s his first thought? He thinks it’s “great,” and he wants to continue exploring.
It is reminiscent of condescending, entitled people who romanticize poor neighborhoods. They value the neighborhood’s ambience, because it is somehow more ‘authentic’ and ‘exotic,’ but they don’t value the residents who live and often suffer there. And they certainly wouldn't live there themselves.