what happens to tiger lily in peter pan book

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23-11-2024

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Tiger Lily's fate in J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan and Wendy is a subject of much discussion and interpretation. Unlike the Disney adaptation, which portrays her as a more prominent and developed character, Barrie's original novel offers a more ambiguous and arguably less satisfying portrayal. The book doesn't explicitly detail her long-term future, leaving her story open to speculation.

Tiger Lily's Role in Neverland

Tiger Lily is introduced as the princess of the Piccaninny tribe, a group of Native American-inspired characters living in Neverland. Barrie's portrayal of these characters is now considered problematic due to its reliance on racist stereotypes. It's important to acknowledge this historical context when discussing her character.

She initially captures Peter Pan and his companions, holding them captive in her tribe's village. This encounter highlights her strength and leadership within her community, even if the depiction itself is problematic by today's standards. She's presented as fiercely protective of her people and her home.

The Rescue and the Ambiguity

Peter Pan ultimately rescues Tiger Lily and her tribe from Captain Hook's impending attack. This act establishes Peter as a hero, but also reinforces the problematic power dynamic between the white savior and the indigenous people he supposedly rescues. The novel leaves the specific details of the rescue quite vague. While we know she is saved, the longer-term implications for her and her tribe are not explored in depth.

After the conflict, Tiger Lily's presence in the narrative significantly diminishes. She's effectively sidelined, with no further significant role in the unfolding events. This abrupt fade-out is a key source of dissatisfaction for modern readers who might wish for a more complete and respectful portrayal.

Interpretations and Criticisms

The lack of resolution regarding Tiger Lily's future leads to various interpretations:

• She returns to her normal life: The simplest interpretation is that after the conflict with Captain Hook, Tiger Lily returns to her life as princess of her tribe.
• A fading presence: Some argue that her diminished role reflects a common pattern in the novel where female characters are relegated to secondary positions once the primary narrative (Peter Pan's adventures) progresses.
• A symbol of colonialism: The critics argue her character serves as a symbolic representation of the colonial relationship between the British and indigenous populations; a rescued princess, largely forgotten once the immediate threat is removed.

Conclusion: A Problematic Legacy

Tiger Lily's story in Peter Pan ultimately remains incomplete and unsatisfying. While her initial introduction presents her as a strong leader, her subsequent marginalization raises serious questions about Barrie's portrayal of indigenous peoples and his treatment of female characters. Her ambiguous fate serves as a reminder of the problematic aspects of a classic children's story and the need for critical engagement with historical texts. Modern adaptations have attempted to address these issues by giving her a more substantial and less stereotypical role, showcasing her strength and agency more effectively.