Taking a Stand, Simba Style

Between great childhood classics such as The Lion King and Hercules, who can say that Disney movies do not teach children valuable lessons? When I was small and watched these movies I, of course, did not directly interpret the lessons being snuck into the entertainment. But now, looking back on all these films, I can clearly see several lessons, morals, and lifestyles being covertly taught.

In the popular Disney movie The Lion King, Simba is convinced to run away from his home by his very own Uncle Scar. Scar convinces Simba that he is directly responsible for the death of his father, and Simba, frightened by what the rest of the pride will think about that, flees from his pending responsibilities of being king. The young lion runs and finds a home with a misfit meerkat and warthog, Timon and Pumbaa, and does not think about his home until his long-time friend Nala crosses paths with him while hunting, but also bearing bad news. Scar ended up being a total jerk as a king and let the hyenas have free reign throughout the kingdom and Simba, upon hearing this, makes his way back to Pride Rock.

In the end, Simba confronts Scar for his rightful place as king of the pride, but Scar is unwilling to go down without a fight. Simba wins(because of course in the movies the good guy always wins) and gains his right to rule.

Simba's taking a stand affected so many characters, from himself to his friends to his family. His mom was incredibly happy to see him again, as was his best friend Nala. Timon and Pumbaa rejoice for his victory, and though they are not lions, they join his pride. But the most outstanding result of his taking a stand was that he found out the actual cause of his father's death, putting an end to the guilt he felt. He was able to reclaim him rightful place in the circle of life(haha, pun intended) and was able, of course, to live happily ever after