HOW TO USE THIS GUIDEBrave is the story of young Princess Merida and her determination to make her own way in life. Fighting the customs of her kingdom and her role as a woman, she struggles to make her own destiny.

This guide is designed to help frame and facilitate a conversation on the themes and motives behind Pixar’s Brave. Enjoy the conversation!

THEME 1: DON’T LET PRIDE GET THE BEST OF YOU Although the film is set in medieval Scotland, the challenges of Brave abound in everyday life. Princess Merida’s first predicament is overreliance on lousy counsel. But so intent to change her destiny, she forfeits the safety of her mother, and nearly loses her completely.

Q1 Has your own shortsighted pride ever kept you from fulfilling your goals?

Q2 How has someone else’s pride negatively affected you?

GO DEEPERIt’s not a rare occurrence; oftentimes, when we pursue something wholeheartedly we leave others in the dust.

How has pursuing your destiny affected others around you? How can you achieve balance here, between your own pursuits and the consideration of others?

Read Proverbs 13:10 (GNT)

“Arrogance causes nothing but trouble. It is wiser to ask for advice.”

Do you agree with the Bible? How do you decide what’s good advice and what’s bad advice?

Read Proverbs 12:15 (GNT)

“Stupid people always think they are right. Wise people listen to advice.”

Have you ever dealt with people who constantly think they’re right? How do you manage their expectations?

“Fate moves together like a cloth.”– Queen Elinor

“Our fate lives within us; you only have to be brave enough to see It.”– Princess Merida

THEME 2: IT’S GOOD TO HAVE FRIENDSIn the film, three clans try to win the hand of Princess Merida. But when all fail and chaos ensues, it’s the princess herself who reminds the men of what loyalties and friends must remain.

Q1 Share a time in your life when you wanted to cut ties, but remembered your friendship is worth more than your argument?

Q2 We can disagree with our family and friends all the time, but that doesn’t change the fact that they are an important part of our lives. What works for you in overcoming the challenges of family life?

GO DEEPERPeople have banned together throughout history to accomplish goals. Just in our short American history, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement, we can see the power and strength in numbers.

On a sheet of paper, map out three pros and cons for the value of cultivating close alliances.

What would it take for you to determine it is time to cut ties with a close friend or family member?

THEME 3: MAKE YOUR OWN WAYEven though Princess Merida initially wrecks her life to remake it, she realizes her mistake and mends the tapestry that she had cut apart. It may not be easy, but forgiveness and change are possible.

Q1 What’s a big dream for your life and where did it come from?

Q2 Is this dream your own idea or from another source?

Q2 If your dream came true, how would your world be different?

GO DEEPERThe truth is, we are all very different. Think about how you can work harder to pursue your dreams while also helping your friends and family to accomplish their own.

We all have a place in our community (or clan!). This week, take time to be more intentional in your actions.

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© Copyright American Bible Society 2012

*The impact of movies, television and theater on culture is profound, shaping how millions perceive social and moral issues. ABS builds resources for mainstream releases to facilitate culture-reaching conversations, inviting viewers to use themes presented to explore a new or refreshed relationship with Christ. This should not be perceived as direct endorsement of any particular media content.

Official movie website:

disney.go.com/brave