Arendelle's Religious Landscape in Disney's Frozen: A Medieval Protestant Perspective

In Disney's Frozen (2013), the kingdom of Arendelle is a fictional setting heavily influenced by real-world Norwegian culture. However, the religion of the characters, Anna and Elsa, is a nuanced representation that goes beyond a simple Christian doctrine, touching on medieval Protestant practice and religious symbolism. This article delves into the spiritual atmosphere of Arendelle, drawing parallels to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Norway and exploring the implications of Elsa's ice magic in a religious context.

The Christian Influence of Arendelle

The kingdom of Arendelle, like Norway, is depicted as a Christian nation, specifically Protestant. While Elsa and Anna, the twin sisters of the kingdom, are indeed Christians, the religious practices in Arendelle heavily emphasize the Protestant principle of individual religious freedom and more pragmatic, secularized religious observance. This is a clear reflection of the real-world Evangelical Lutheran Church of Norway, which has a strong presence in the country's cultural and political fabric.

Religious Practices and Psychological Trope

According to Elan Justice Pavlinich of the University of South Florida, the religious practices in Frozen are more about psychological tropes than specific religious doctrines. Pavlinich notes that the coronation ceremony in Arendelle has elements rooted in medieval practices but is adapted to reflect Protestant anxiety over the theatricality of traditional religion.

The medieval ritual of the coronation plays a crucial role in the film. The ritual represents an ideal of an efficacious medieval priest, who, through speech, bestows the rights of the queen. However, this is juxtaposed with the post-Reformation anxiety over the trappings of traditional religion. As Elsa is crowned, the scepter and orb, which are symbols of power and wealth, are treated with a religious test, emphasizing the practicalities of power rather than divine attributes.

Religious Test and Medieval Legacy

The act of handling the scepter and orb with bare hands is a significant religious test. Unlike the medieval mass, which was seen with heightened theatricality, the ceremonial handling of the scepter and orb in Arendelle is seen as a practical demand for power without the religious connotations. This test, performed by the bishop, serves as a power dynamic rather than a religious affirmation. The bishop's insistence on bare hands is a calculated move, suggesting a hidden intention to expose Elsa and her connection to her powers.

The coronation, therefore, stands as a form of performance that signifies political authority rather than a religious endorsement. The audience and the kingdom itself are united in the moment of the coronation, but the underlying tensions of Elsa's powers and their implications for the kingdom's stability are evident.

Arendelle’s Pagan Roots and Modern Faith

Despite the Protestant influence, Arendelle's religious landscape also reflects a deeper connection to its pagan roots. The mention of preceding monarchs and the secretive role of the trolls introduce a layer of mystery and ancient magic that has persisted in their society. The trolls, and the old stone altar, symbolize a more primal, magical force that remains relevant in the kingdom's history. This religious and magical duality creates a complex cultural identity for Arendelle.

Even contemporary characters, like Anna and Oaken, are mindful of these ancient beliefs, suggesting that the pagan and Christian elements are not mutually exclusive. In times of crisis, the kingdom returns to the wisdom of the trolls, indicating that these ancient mystics are still valued for their guidance and practical wisdom. This interweaving of pagan and Christian elements highlights the Protestant emphasis on individual discernment and personal faith.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the religious landscape of Arendelle in Frozen is a blend of Christian and pagan traditions, reflecting the real-world influence of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Norway. The kingdom's coronation ceremony and Elsa's ice magic add layers of complexity to its religious narrative, symbolizing both power and anxiety. By understanding these nuances, we can appreciate the religious depth and cultural richness of the Frozen universe.