As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child today, our highlight goes to a heroine and woman warrior, Fa Mulan. Her story was first written as a folk ballad that took place during the Northern Dynasties (386–581 AD). The Ballad of Mulan tells the story of a girl who took her Father’s place in the army by dressing up as a man as she had no elder brother to accomplish that position. After years of military service to China, she returns to her hometown with gifts from the emperor. Mulan’s parents, sister, and younger brother prepare a feast to welcome her back. She changes her clothes, uses makeup, and does her hair, which shocked her fellow soldiers upon greeting them. Even though they have fought side-by-side for years, they did not realize that Mulan is a woman. 

Whether you are a Disney fan, an avid movie go-er, or a reader, at some point, you will start to wonder, is Mulan a real historical figure in China? The short answer would be no. Up till today, there is no existential proof that Mulan is a heroine who lived during a particular time. However, as things get complicated, there comes speculation due to how close it resembled the Ballad of Mulan (the earliest written document about her). Others include how her story has evolved from the fourth to the sixth centuries to this very day. According to the documents, it is most likely that the ballad was based on real people and events. 

Evidence to where Mulan was from, can be found through early versions of her story through poetry, drama, fiction, essays, and notes. Her name can also be found in Chinese history in the 19th century, such as Gazetteers of the Grand Qing. The Yellow River and the Yan Mountain were locations mentioned in the folk ballad, which people later used to imagine her village. Also, there are tablet inscriptions, tomb sites, memorial shrines, and statues dedicated to her. So, what did the ‘real Mulan’ look like? The original ballad mentioned her changing into feminine clothing and doing her hair and makeup after she returns home. Subsequently, drawings of her have also appeared in the collections of beauties. 

The famous folklore, Mulan, was created during the late Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534). It was a period where the northern region of Han China was frequently invaded by the Mongolians. According to historical documents, a real war broke out between the Northern Wei state and a Mongolic state called Rouran. In 429, the emperor of Northern Wei led an army to fight Rouran and based on the Ballad of Mulan, the battle lasted for 12 years. The wars Mulan fought took place between the Black Mountains and Mount Yanran. She journeys across the Yellow River to reach Black Mountain where she can hear the fierce neighing of the enemy’s horses. 

Not to mention, children’s picture books retelling Mulan’s story have been sold since the 1990s. While some of them were translated closely from the ballad, others adapted her story with varied details and vibrant drawings. Some are published in English and others in bilingual books. What’s more is that Disney’s 1998 animated film, as well as its sequel Mulan II 2005 and the merchandise, has contributed to Mulan’s global phenomenon. 

Source: Box Lunch 2020 

Not only has Mulan taught us to be brave and act on the things we believe in, but she has also taught us to persevere through the tough times and never give up. Her story reminds us that we shouldn’t let our limitations dictate what we can or cannot do and how a little optimism and creativity can go a long way. One way Mulan has changed the world is through Disney that utilized their platform to shine a light on the Chinese culture. Representation matters, the 1998 Disney animation has highlighted China’s rich history and alluring ethnicity. Overall, the animated movie has opened more doors to allow people to be more accepting of diverse races and Mulan’s story has inspired many young girls to be brave and stand up to what they believe in.