The found family trope has long been a beloved element in storytelling, resonating deeply with audiences across various genres and mediums. From the rolling hills of Middle-earth to the enchanted forests of Andowyne, and even the mystical lands of the Four Nations, the bonds forged by unlikely groups of companions create a sense of belonging and unity that strikes a chord with many. Whether it's the ragtag group of adventurers in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the eclectic band of heroes in the 1980's fantasy film Willow, or the endearing characters in the anime Avatar: The Last Airbender, found families create narratives brimming with heart, camaraderie, and adventure. These tales remind us that home is not just a place, but a feeling, nurtured by the people we choose to share our lives with.
The Power of Found Family
Chosen families are distinct from biological ones in that they are intentionally formed through shared experiences, mutual respect, and love. This trope illustrates a unique dynamic where characters come together to support each other, often navigating and overcoming personal and external challenges as a cohesive unit. These relationships delve deep into the emotional and psychological aspects of the characters, portraying a transformative bond that offers them a profound sense of identity and belonging, characteristics that they might not have found in their biological families.
Avatar: The Last Airbender provides a perfect example of the found family trope. Aang, the last Airbender, forms a close-knit group with Katara, Sokka, Toph, and later Zuko. Each character comes from a different background, but they bond over their shared mission to bring peace to the world. Their journey is filled with trials and challenges, but their relationship strengthens as they rely on each other for emotional and physical support. This connection highlights the importance of acceptance, forgiveness, and understanding in forming a family, regardless of blood ties.
In the 1988 film Willow, the titular character embarks on a perilous journey to protect a prophesied child. Along the way, he forms a makeshift family with Madmartigan, Sorsha, and a pair of mischievous Brownies. Despite their differences and initial reluctance to trust one another, they develop a strong bond that helps them overcome the forces of evil. This unity underlines the idea that family is not just about who you are born to, but who you choose to stand by and fight for.
The Lord of the Rings showcases another compelling found family. The Fellowship, comprising members from different races and backgrounds, is brought together by a common goal: to destroy the One Ring. The bonds forged among the members, exemplify loyalty and friendship. Their unwavering support for each other, even in the darkest times, is a testament to the strength of chosen family ties.
Themes of Belonging and Acceptance
For many, especially those who are neurodivergent, introverted, or feel out of place in their communities, the found family trope holds a special significance. These individuals often struggle with fitting into societal norms or meeting the expectations of their caregivers. Finding a group where they can be themselves and be accepted for who they are is not just a narrative device but a real-life aspiration.
Growing up as an introvert in a military family, I got a lot of unintentional research on this subject as a kid. Every two to three years, we moved to a location which meant losing all of my friends and starting again as the "new girl" at a new school right before my birthday. Early on, I saw the silver lining in this situation as being that I could sort of reinvent myself every few years with the knowledge of what had and hadn't worked well the prior times. However, as I got into my teenage years, I grew tired of feeling as though I was always wearing a mask and began to embrace more authenticity only to be surprised when doing so led me to meet and become friends with others who truly liked, understood, and accepted me in all of my awkward weirdness. Ever since then, I found myself drawn to any works that feature found families since I can attest to how they help us grow into better versions of ourselves even in the real world.
In Avatar: The Last Airbender, Toph's story is particularly poignant. Blind since birth and underestimated by her parents, she finds acceptance and respect in Aang and his friends. Her journey from a sheltered, lonely child to a confident, integral part of the group illustrates the profound impact of finding a family that appreciates her true self.
Similarly, in Willow, the character of Madmartigan, a roguish mercenary, initially seems like an unlikely hero. However, through his interactions with Willow and the others, he discovers his own capacity for love and heroism. His transformation from a self-centered loner to a loyal protector showcases how found families can bring out the best in individuals.
In The Lord of the Rings, the character of Aragorn also embodies this theme. Though the rightful heir to the throne of Gondor, he initially lives as a ranger, detached from his destiny. The Fellowship becomes his family, providing him with the support and motivation he needs to embrace his role as a leader. His journey underscores the idea that finding one’s place often involves forming bonds with those who see and nurture your potential.
Why Writers Should Consider the Found Family Trope
Incorporating the found family trope into stories can enrich narratives and create deeper connections with readers. Here are a few reasons why writers should consider this trope:
Emotional Depth: Found families add layers of emotional depth to a story. The relationships formed through shared hardships and triumphs are inherently dramatic and compelling.
Relatability: Many people have experienced the joy of finding their own "tribe" in real life. Writing about found families can make stories more relatable and resonate with a wider audience.
Character Development: The dynamics within a found family provide ample opportunities for character development. Each member can grow and change through their interactions with one another, making for a richer and more engaging narrative. This trope also allows for immense character growth around themes of forgiveness of both self and others and challenging views and prejudice like with the relationship between Kitara and Zuko in Avatar: The Last Airbender or between Legolas and Gimli in The Lord of the Rings.
Inclusivity: Found families often consist of diverse characters, promoting themes of acceptance and inclusivity. This can appeal to readers who value representation and diversity in storytelling.
Universal Appeal: The concept of finding one’s place and people is universal. Regardless of the setting or genre, the found family trope can strike a chord with readers from all walks of life.
Reflecting on Found Families
As you think about the stories you love, consider the found families within them. How do these groups of characters support and uplift each other? How do they mirror or contrast with your own experiences of finding a community?
In your life, who are the people you consider your found family? How did you meet them, and what makes your bond special? Reflecting on these questions can deepen your appreciation for the stories you love and the people in your life.
Found families remind us that we are not alone, even when we feel out of place. They offer hope that, regardless of our backgrounds or differences, we can find people who understand, accept, and love us. This is why the found family trope is so powerful and why it continues to captivate audiences across generations.
Feel free to share your favorite found family stories in the comments. Let’s celebrate the diverse and beautiful ways that we find and form our own families, both in fiction and in real life!