Decoding the Personality and Design Psychology of the Main Character in Tangled

Abstract

This qualitative research aims to analyze the character design in the animated film Tangled based on the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) framework and psychological theories, including Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Color Psychology. It also examines how character design influences the storytelling process. The study focuses on five main characters: Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Mother Gothel, Pascal, and Maximus - selected through purposive sampling.

            The findings reveal that character design reflects distinct personalities, motivations, and emotions, which define the roles and relationships of each character in the narrative. Based on 1) the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) framework, the study found that Rapunzel represents the ENFP “Campaigner” personality type (Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving), contributing to a positive and optimistic tone in the story. Flynn Rider reflects reflects the ISTP “Virtuoso” personality type (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, and Perceiving), driving the narrative through logic and action. Mother Gothel reflects the ESFJ “Consul” personality type (Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, and Judging), serving as a primary driving force and source of conflict within the plot. Pascal represents the INFP “Mediator” personality type (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving), supporting emotional balance and harmony, while Maximus represents to the ISTJ “Logistician” personality type (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging), creating challenges and tension that enhance narrative progression. Based on 2) Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory, the findings indicate that Rapunzel and Flynn demonstrate growth through the progressive stages of Maslow’s hierarchy, contributing to the core theme, driving the narrative, and fostering the development of their relationship. Gothel, in contrast, remains fixated on Safety Needs, resulting in obstacles and conflict. Pascal fulfills needs across all levels of the hierarchy, serving as emotional support and maintaining balance for the main characters. Meanwhile, Maximus achieves self-actualization, and becomes a significant turning point in the film. According to 3) Color Psychology, the analysis reveals that Rapunzel is characterized by bright color tones, including light purple, golden yellow, and green, emphasizing her role and character development. Flynn employs natural tones, including teal, brown, and white, reflecting his emotional growth and psychological transformation. In contrast, Gothel is defined by dark hues, including deep red and black, symbolically opposing Rapunzel and representing the central conflict of the story. Pascal primarily uses green to signify loyalty, red for anger, purple for calmness, and orange for danger, conveying emotional depth and nuance. Meanwhile, Maximus is portrayed through light tones, including white for righteousness, light blond for elegance, brown for reliability, gold for honor, and light blue for intelligence, reflecting his moral integrity, character growth, and underlying conflict with Flynn.