Beauty And The Beast (2017) - Belle

The song 'Belle' from the 2017 adaptation of 'Beauty and the Beast' introduces us to the protagonist, Belle, and her life in a small, provincial town. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a monotonous village where every day is a repetition of the last. The townspeople greet each other with a routine 'Bonjour,' highlighting the predictability and simplicity of their lives. Belle, however, stands out as someone who yearns for more than the mundane existence her town offers. Her interactions with the villagers, such as Monsieur Jean and Père Robert, reveal her love for books and her desire for adventure and romance, as she dreams of a life beyond the confines of her small town.

Belle's character is further developed through the townspeople's perception of her. They see her as peculiar and different, with her head always in a book and a dreamy, far-off look in her eyes. This sets her apart from the rest of the villagers, who are content with their provincial lives. The ensemble's repeated observations about Belle's oddness underscore her uniqueness and her dissatisfaction with the status quo. Her declaration, 'There must be more than this provincial life!' encapsulates her longing for something greater and more fulfilling.

Gaston, the town's handsome and arrogant suitor, contrasts sharply with Belle. He sees her beauty as a prize to be won, despite her intellectual pursuits and lack of interest in him. Gaston's determination to marry Belle, despite her clear disinterest, highlights the societal expectations placed on women and the superficial values of the townspeople. The ensemble's admiration for Gaston, despite his brutish nature, further emphasizes the shallow values of the village. Belle's resistance to these norms and her quest for a more meaningful life make her a compelling and relatable character, embodying the universal desire for self-discovery and fulfillment.