I: The History of the Orphan
Orphan as Symbol
The particularities of each Orphan story may differ, but the heroism of every Orphan character is set in motion by a few essential characteristics. This distinct and consistent form can be identified according to a few basic attributes.• Age: 3-17
• Negotiating Gender Identity
• Autonomous and self sufficient
• Acute sensitivity to their surroundings
• Charming & resourceful
• Inherently tragic
These attributes are the foundation for how the Orphan became a symbol of some of our most cherished cultural ideals.
