My Favourite Female Protagonists

This Galentine’s Day, as well as celebrating the women in my life that I love, I thought I’d celebrate the women in literature I love.

Jane Eyre from Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Jane Eyre was one of the novels I focused my dissertation on – so I have special, if stress-related memories of it – and I think Jane is a great protagonist.

She starts off as an outcast, then starts to find her feet and her voice – which I love. Though I think Brontë could have developed her character more, I love how strong willed she is and – as much as this is a story about romance and secrets – I think the most important part of the story is the fact that it is Jane’s journey through womanhood and her journey to find herself.

Aelin Galathynius from the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J Maas

Admittedly I haven’t read the whole series but, from what I have read, I love Aelin as a protagonist.

She starts off as a cunning, sometimes ruthless, young woman but – as the series rolls on – you see there is more to her as a character. She cares deeply for those that she loves and is determined. Though I think Maas focused on the romance aspects a bit too much at times, I love that Aelin is strong without a man. I also love that she likes fashion and trinkets as well as fighting battles.

Jo March from Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

I read this book last year and loved the tale of the sisters, though I think I gravitate towards Jo the most.

Unlike her sisters, she’s not a traditional woman of the time. She isn’t interested in fashion, in men or in whatever else her sisters like. She cares about her sisters but is also fiercely independent. Plus the casting of Saorise Ronan in this role was perfect.

Matilda from Matilda by Roald Dahl

This book was one of my favourite books as a child and I think this is down to Matilda’s character.

Despite her upbringing, Matilda is passionate, a bookworm and funny. I love reading what she gets up to and I’m happy with how her character develops throughout.

Birdy Finch from The Summer Job by Lizzy Dent

I read this book last year and I knew Birdy would be on my list for sure.

She starts out at a loss and unsure of herself but, as the narrative unfolds, she’s funny, sensitive and you feel like you’re reading about a friend rather than a fictional character.

So that’s it, a list of (some of) my favourite female protagonists. Who would be on your list? Let me know!

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