Esmerelda from Hunchback of Notre Dame
Photo by Yenra
Esméralda, born Agnès, is a fictional character in Victor Hugo's 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (or Notre Dame de Paris). She is a French Roma girl (near the end of the book, it is revealed that her biological mother was a French woman). She constantly attracts men with her seductive dances, and is rarely seen without her clever goat Djali. She is around 16 years old and has a kind and generous heart.
Esmeralda is a central character in Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" as well as in its various adaptations, including the popular Disney animated film. She is depicted as a kind-hearted and streetwise Romani woman living in Paris. Esmeralda is renowned for her stunning beauty and her captivating dance performances, which attract the attention of many, including the hunchback Quasimodo and the archdeacon Claude Frollo.
In the narrative, Esmeralda stands out for her compassion and her ability to see beyond physical appearances, as exemplified by her kindness towards Quasimodo. She is a symbol of hope and resilience amidst the struggles faced by her community against discrimination and social injustice. Esmeralda's character also adds a romantic dimension to the story, particularly in her relationship with Captain Phoebus, creating a love triangle dynamic with Frollo and Quasimodo.
Esmeralda's portrayal varies across adaptations, but she consistently remains a strong and empathetic character. In the Disney adaptation, she is particularly noted for her spirited nature and her advocacy for social justice, resonating with audiences as a symbol of moral integrity and courage. Her character plays a vital role in the story, driving many of the key plot points and embodying themes of acceptance and the fight against oppression.