The Frozen Phenomenon
15 Things Only Adults Noticed In Frozen
In 2013, Frozen made its debut in theaters and quickly captivated audiences worldwide. The enchanting tale of two royal sisters, Anna and Elsa, became an instant classic and solidified its place as one of Disney's most beloved animated movies. The magical world of Frozen, filled with wonder, mystery, and endearing characters, has sparked numerous questions among fans. One such enigma revolves around the elusive last names of the iconic sisters.
Elsa and Anna look off to the side shocked in Frozen II.
Despite the intricate world-building and character arcs within the Frozen franchise, the last names of Anna and Elsa have remained a well-guarded secret, leaving fans to ponder over this intriguing mystery. However, recent developments have shed light on this long-standing enigma, providing a fascinating glimpse into the historical and cultural context that surrounds the beloved characters.
Custom image of Elsa and Anna in Frozen 2
Decoding the Last Names
The quest to unveil Anna and Elsa's last names has led to an exploration of historical clues and cultural traditions. Surprisingly, the absence of last names in the Frozen movies is a deliberate nod to royal naming conventions, as the sisters are simply identified as 'of Arendelle,' signifying their royal lineage and the kingdom they rule. However, a Tumblr user named PaulKellogg came remarkably close to unraveling this mystery in 2014, drawing on significant historical context to piece together the missing puzzle.
Blended image of a shocked Elsa and Anna and Olaf grimancing
To decode the last names of Anna and Elsa, it is essential to delve into the timeline and setting of the Frozen movies. Based on the Roman numerals on the map from Frozen Fever, the films are situated in Norway during the 1860s or 1870s, aligning with the cultural norms of that era. During this period, Norwegian families predominantly adopted patronymic last names, wherein the daughters would inherit their father's first name with the suffix -(s)datter or -(s)dotter, reflecting regional and dialectal variations.
Kristen Bell as Anna lying on the lap of Idina Menzel as Elsa as children in Frozen
The revelation of their parents' names, King Agnarr and Queen Iduna, further contributes to the deciphering of Anna and Elsa's last names. The book 'Frozen: Anna & Elsa’s Childhood Times' and its sequel, 'Frozen II,' confirmed these vital details. With this information in mind, it is deduced that Anna and Elsa's last name would likely have been Agnarrsdatter, following the traditional patronymic naming pattern. However, an intriguing twist arises from old Norse tradition, where children occasionally adopted matronymic last names instead. This alternative path leads to the possibility of the sisters being known as Anna and Elsa Idunasdatter, maintaining the naming convention but substituting their father's name with their mother's.
Elsa and Anna atop a bed with their mom and dad sitting in Frozen 2.
The Enigma Unveiled
The decision to withhold Anna and Elsa's last names from the Frozen franchise aligns with Disney's portrayal of princesses and their familial identities. Traditionally, animated Disney princesses are not assigned surnames, with their first names serving as the primary identifier. This deliberate choice emphasizes their individuality and symbolic representation, resonating with the timeless charm of fairy tales. Notably, Fa Mulan and Mirabel Madrigal emerge as exceptions, as their family backgrounds play pivotal roles in their respective narratives, warranting the inclusion of surnames.
Anna and Elsa hold hands smiling at one another.
Evidently, the absence of Anna and Elsa's last names in the Frozen franchise serves to maintain a sense of continuity with established Disney princess traditions, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Arendelle while speculating on the enigmatic surnames of the beloved sisters. This deliberate omission preserves the timeless allure of the Frozen narrative, inviting fans to partake in the ongoing intrigue surrounding Anna and Elsa's last names.
