Aaron Ehasz & Justin Richmond - ‘The Dragon Prince’
One of my favourite shows at the moment, is **The Dragon Prince. One of the central themes in the show is the pursuit of resolution through understanding and empathy rather than force and violence. The show explores the complex dynamics between humans, elves and dragons, each with their unique histories and cultures.
By showing these struggles of its diverse characters, the series highlights the importance of unity and understanding in resolving long-standing conflicts.
Throughout the series, this theme plays out in several major ways:
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One of the central conflicts is between humans and the creatures of Xadia, including elves and dragons. Both sides have suffered great losses and there is deep distrust. The series emphasises resolution through dialogue, understanding and collaboration. The journey to return the dragon prince to his mother represents a step toward reconciliation and healing old wounds.
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Resolution through forgiveness is a recurring theme. Characters like Callum, Rayla and Ezran consistently seek paths to resolving conflicts that don’t involve violence, even when others, like Viren, prefer war or conquest. The Dragon Prince suggests that true resolution requires empathy and the willingness to forgive past grievances.
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Characters like King Harrow and his son Ezran strive to break the cycle of violence and revenge. King Harrow’s letter to Callum (’Heart of a Titan’ (2019) The Dragon Prince, Series 2, Episode 6. Netflix, February 15.) reflects his regret over past decisions driven by hatred and vengeance. Ezran, as king, promotes peace and diplomacy over war, demonstrating a theme of resolution through the cessation of cycles of violence.
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Cycles Theme Link - This links back very nicely to the topic of cycles. As mentioned, cycles exist in various aspects of life. Some good and some bad. When it comes to the cycle of violence and war in contrast to the circle of life and being better for the future generations to come, it is also our responsibility to put aside our differences and end this destructive pattern.
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Each main character undergoes their own journey of resolution. Callum resolves his inner conflicts over his identity as both a human and a magic user. Rayla seeks redemption for her people and personal resolution regarding her parents’ supposed abandonment. These personal arcs reflect how resolving internal conflicts is necessary for broader peace.
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The theme of resolution in The Dragon Prince often comes through cooperation and unity among diverse groups. Humans, elves, dragons and even dark magic users must work together to confront larger threats like Viren and Aaravos. The series emphasizes that resolution can only come through a shared commitment to peace and understanding.
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When it comes to resolution, adaptation is a key factor in determining whether said resolution lasts, or crumbles. It is the process by which people, groups, or societies adjust after a conflict, learning to live with the outcomes/consequences of the resolution. This can lead to new roles, expectations and most importantly, new norms. Adaptation is significant because it reflects a transformation, where the parties that were involved in the conflict, may need to reshape not only their lives, but outlooks and even beliefs.
For example: After WWII, countries adapted by reshaping their economies, forming alliances (like the United Nations) and redefining national identities to bring about peace and prevent future wars.
One of my favourite musicals, Hamilton, handles conflict extremely well. More accurately, the measures taken to resolve a conflict before it starts. This is most evident in the song ‘Ten Duel Commandments’ when Hamilton duels Eacker. The song begins and the first few verses detail the measures taken in attempt to stop the conflict before it can spill into violence.