The Profound Characterization of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde
by Annalise Jones
Legally Blonde is one of the most clever films of the early twenty-first century. But this is more than a funny movie just to get a laugh; the literary elements in Legally Blonde are striking! There's conflict, irony, symbolism and meaningful themes we can all relate to. But most remarkably, this film portrays a brilliant character arc of Elle Woods. Elle Woods is an unforgettable character, making Legally Blonde a timeless story and worthy piece of literature.
The story begins with Elle Woods as a brainless college student majoring in fashion. She lives up to every stereotype about blondes! And for this reason, her boyfriend dumps her, in search of a more serious "politician's wife." Elle Woods is well characterized as a love sick puppy, willing to do just anything to win back the affections of Warner.
As Elle studies diligently and gets accepted into Harvard Law in her fierce determination to win back the boy, she proves herself to be deeper than we first thought. Although she still wears pink every day and carries around her companion pup, she is intelligent and insightful.
Elle also proves herself to be a true friend, and compassionate to those not "in her league." As somebody very misunderstood herself, she holds no prejudice against those less than her. She is loving and kind to Paulette, the hairdresser, encouraging her and backing her up in her time of need.
Having shown her work ethic and creative thinking, Elle is chosen for a special internship. But then she really gets put to the test: will she hold her head high when the shallow head attorney shames and resents her, even firing her unfairly? And will she betray the trust of the client, the defendant in the case? Once again, Elle proves herself to have depth of character: poise, confidence, loyalty, and integrity.
The ultimate test of Elle's character, and the triumph of her character arc, comes when she is sought after once again by a humbled Warner. This is what she has been determined to achieve, her focus for the previous couple years, the very reason she went to law school in the first place! But during this time, she has learned so much about herself and grown in her confidence, that she can now stand solidly on her own two feet and be with associates who truly respect her as an intelligent woman who has much to contribute. So she rejects him! Way to go, girl!
Elle is a kind, caring woman who helps a lower class beautician find her confidence; but ironically enough, it was Elle herself who needed to establish her confidence all along. The victory of Elle Woods is portrayed in the irony that her "blondeness" actually doesn't preclude her from being a worthwhile, rich character; and the further irony of her rejection of the boyfriend she did all this for, serves to validate her intelligence all the more.
Through the course of the story, Elle Woods makes some significant changes and shows so much growth. But her kind and tender heart, and her quick wit and practical intelligence were there all along. She is an unforgettable character in modern American literature.
