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Frozen Heart

Amy Leong, Author

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Gloves' Design Uncovers More on Elsa's Identity


Last but not least, the glove’s design also plays a major role in demonstrating the internal battle of identity and restriction. As an example, the bottom of the glove displays two lines that converge at a sharp point, depicting what seems like an arrow or tall mountain. Examining the design more closely, the arrow is pointing in the direction to come off her hand, as Elsa wants to be able to control her powers and use them freely. But the fact that the glove is still on her hand reveals how she feels constrained by the glove. While it stops her from using her powers, it also stops her from expressing her true self. 

Furthermore, looking at the same design as a mountain, its sharp edge is fully defined, which demonstrates the fear that surrounds her dangerous powers. Throughout the film, Elsa struggles with the danger she sees in herself and decides to isolate herself to protect the ones she loves. Therefore, the image of the mountain on her glove illustrates her castle at the top of the mountain, demonstrating the theme of isolation and the constant battle Elsa faces alone. 


Moreover, closer to the top of the glove is a symbol that looks like a heart, but is unfinished, displaying a curled letter V design. Since the design is only partially illustrated, this demonstrates the brokenness of Elsa’s heart and the incompleteness of her relationship with her sister Anna and the rest of the citizens of Arendelle. With the glove stopping Elsa from using her powers, it also prevents her from feeling love, leaving the design incomplete to show the emptiness she feels in her heart. 


Ironically, while the glove should provide comfort and protection, it traps her from displaying her true self and destroys close relationships. Following Disney’s classic trapped damsel, Elsa is no different as even her personality itself adopts this idea of isolation and feeling trapped. Instead of trying to go against the struggle, Elsa becomes it, as her trapped feeling of the glove presents itself in the closing off of relationships to the point of fearing herself. In any case, Elsa’s struggle of inner conflict has become a part of her, from the glove she wears to the personality she adopts.

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