Growing up fascinated by pop culture, I often took online quizzes to see which character from my favorite show or movie I was most like (or which celebrity would be my perfect partner!). This prompted me to write this blog post.
In a fun, nostalgic exercise of judgment, I detail the qualities of our favorite shoujo protagonists and sort them into categories that best describe their personalities.
*Disclaimer: Character descriptions may contain spoilers*
1. You Think I’m Nonchalant, But I’m Just Realistic
It’s not that you don’t care; you just don’t feel the need to stress over things you can’t control. Instead, you put that energy into what you can change.
You’re assertive and have bold opinions. Establishing boundaries is important to you as a form of self-respect. Your quick wit mesmerizes your peers. You’re virtuous. The hardships you’ve experienced influenced this version of you.
Being a risk-taker isn’t something you really think to describe yourself–until you’ve realized how much positive change you’ve made in your life by stepping out of your comfort zone. And because of the nature of your realistic beliefs and resourceful abilities, people find you dependable and reliable. However, you’re likely oblivious when it comes to people who are romantically fond of you.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Haruhi Fujioka, Ouran High School Host Club – A non-conformist who stands by the belief that honesty is truly the best policy. No energy wasted when you think of what’s practical. And while not the most outwardly enthusiastic due to her relaxed temperament, she’s actually optimistic about life. You know everything will be A-okay.
- Nana Osaki, Nana – You may prejudge rockers for being free spirits, but Nana is more cautious and mindful than presenting. An insouciant who cares deeply for those who reciprocate. A sensitive softy behind closed doors, with her vulnerability visible only to those close to her. Otherwise, their strong-will and self-assured visuals charm the public.
2. I May Seem Weak, But I’m the Most Compassionate, Optimistic, and Motivated Person You Will Ever Meet
Nothing surprises people more than a delicate-looking being who is mentally exceedingly strong.
You have the tendency to be cheerful, even during hard times. Being convivial is your nature. But you’ve endured many struggles to get to where you are–so all you can be is grateful and optimistic about what’s next.
Many things scare you, but that doesn’t stop your daring, courageous self from exploring the unknown. You’re hopeful, earnest, and genuine, which is why everyone gravitates towards you. Your ability to see the best in people and situations is at the core of who you are, and in return, you receive that same energy.
Your shoujo protagonist companion:
- Tohru Honda, Fruits Basket – Whom I personally declare the greatest shoujo main character of all time, Tohru is a rhapsodic treasure despite a sorrowful past. She can be living in a forest all alone, then rooming with all-male strangers who turn into animals–and next thing you know, she’s trying to help them break their curse. The ultimate empath, if you will. Protect her at all costs!
- Mizuki Ashiya, Hana-Kimi – At a glance at her short, slim figure, you wouldn’t expect Mizuki to be gifted with athletic abilities. She’s what you would call someone who defies all odds. Whether that’s moving across the sea to an all-boys school to follow her dreams, proving to her brother that she can do it, or convincing a semi-retired Sano not to give up himself – this tough cookie is not a shoujo protagonist who will back down when the tough gets going.
3. I’m Brave, Bold, and Confident Because of the People Who Support Me
Your favorite motto is “never give up.” No matter what’s thrown at you, you’re able to get through the hardships you’ve endured. And it’s because of the people who’ve come along the journey that you don’t back down.
You’re not a fan of people telling you that you can’t do something. In fact, it motivates you to do the opposite. You’re adventurous, reliable, and charitable.
One of your greatest assets is that you’re teachable – able to evolve as a being – going from having strong opinions about one thing to not letting your ego stunt your growth in understanding beliefs different from yours.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Yona, Yona of the Dawn – The typical, spoiled child now has to endure what those beneath her live like day-to-day. What’s refreshing about Yona is that instead of continuing to live the coddled life, reality hits her like a bus–and now she is motivated to help everyone struggling alongside her. Even prioritizing them over herself. Understanding the mental load that comes with defending is no longer scary. Officer, put her on the front lines!
- Usagi Tsukino, Sailor Moon – There’s the stereotype that cheerful, upbeat feminine beings don’t possess any interest in more “masculine” activities, like fighting. Fear not; by the motivation of love and the power of friendship, this young lady could surely defeat Dragon Ball’s Goku! …if needed, of course. Usagi isn’t the type to seek and destroy for fun. She sees the good in everyone–even the most evil. You could encounter her for the first time, and she’s ready to put her life on the line for you.
- Sakura Himedaka, Agent of the Four Seasons – You need someone loyal, trustworthy, diplomatic, and quick-witted, like Sakura, to guard an important figure. This shoujo protagonist practices alertness and discipline like their life depends on it…because it does. Diligence isn’t a want; it’s a necessity when you’re tasked with protecting something or someone you love. Let’s not forget that, while tough-looking, this person also needs your emotional support.
4. I’m Just That Girl, and No One’s Going to Bring Me Down
You give “eldest daughter” energy. Your independence intimidates those privileged enough to rely on others. You believe no one can change your life for the better except you. Put your mind to it, and it is achieved.
Your desires are realized through hard work and strong-willedness. You have superior intelligence or exceptional talent. Overcoming obstacles comes with bravery–you live like there’s nothing else to lose. You have to succeed because that’s the goal you’ve set for yourself. You’re also the only person who can truly put yourself down.
Bow down to the tsundere queens of shoujo protagonists! We feed on your brilliance and charisma.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Mikako Kouda, Neighborhood Story – There’s no Plan B, Plan C…there’s only Plan A. Mikako must become a fashion designer and is determined to climb any hill and tunnel vision through to see her dreams come to fruition!…Emphasis on “determined” because there surely are some stops along the way… She’s highly expressive – vocally and visually. No doubt she gives “main character” energy.
- Misaki Ayuzawa, Maid-Sama! – Ah, a daughter having to keep her family afloat. The weight of the world is on her shoulders, but no matter how heavy, she’s still standing. If Misaki asks something of me, I say, “Yes, Miss President!” If someone’s been through a lot, cherish them as much as possible. They go out of their way to do things just to put money on the table. But don’t mistake that for a loss of dignity! Because they’re one of the most respectable people to exist.
5. I’m Tender, Full of Love, and Pure, But Sometimes I Need to Be Taken Care of Too
What a gentle soul–you are. It’s considerate of you to put others’ needs before your own, not complain when things get tough, and sacrifice your boundaries for your peers’ convenience. But please know, you don’t have to.
You find it difficult to say “no” for fear of not stressing, hurting, or annoying someone. People often take advantage of your kindness. Understand–it’s okay to ask for help, to lean on us for support, and to express your feelings when you’re burnt out.
With the temperament of an angel, you’re bound to receive many blessings. You’re worthy of it.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Kashima Ryuuichi, School Babysitters – The hardships of having to take care of your baby brother when you’re a child yourself are disheartening. Yet, every day–you wake up grateful, gleaming with optimism–because you’re afraid that showing any depressing emotion will disappoint your sibling. Ryuuichi is probably the most dependable older brother you will ever meet.
- Miyo Kudou, My Happy Marriage – Is being too kind a blessing or a curse? If you’re like Miyo, you’ve overcome many difficulties. You’ve had low self-esteem for a long time, and I’m proud of you for taking every small step to find your confidence.
6. I May Be Shy, But Once I Get to Know People, I Spread My Wings and Fly Like a Bird
Social settings make you anxious. People assume you’re a scary person; you feel you can’t be who you truly are in front of others, or you’ll get bullied–and everyone is watching your every move. But when you’re with the right people, and if you just push yourself a little more, you’ll realize it’s not all too bad!
What’s important is that you stay true to who you are. It’s what makes you beautiful. That’s how you truly shine. And while not everyone in the world will agree with you, like you, or understand you, the people who love you will.
Embrace your quirks, weirdo! What’s meant for you will be for you.
Your shoujo protagonistcompanions:
- Sawako Kuronuma, Kimi ni Todoke – Our pure, innocent Sawako. Hardworking, reliable, and sincere. So much love to give, but oblivious to how to extend a hand and befriend others. That’s okay! She takes it step-by-step and learns. Even when filled with anxiety, that doesn’t stop her from improving her social skills.
- Asuka Masamune, Otomen – Oh, Asuka, you selfless being. We understand how much your parents’ feelings mean to you and that you don’t want to defy them, but your life is yours to live. Be unapologetically yourself! You can love both sports and shoujo manga. That contrast is what makes us human.
- Yura Onozuka, Honey Hunt – Fake it until you make it, I guess? It’s complicated. When the media portrays your famous family dynamic as perfect when it’s the total opposite, it can be daunting. But that doesn’t stop Yura. After constantly being compared to her parents and harassed for not showing the same level of talent in front of her peers (…and as vengeance against her mother), she musters the courage to audition to become an actress. With the right encouragement and confidence, she’s actually good at it! Practice makes perfect.
7. I Have Different Sides to Me, But What Remains the Same Is My Empathy for People
Enthusiasm is reserved for something that means a lot to you.
You can see sides of people that others may not envision. Is that blindness? No–that’s called range. You don’t believe people are inherently the way they are–you possess the ability to see the whole picture and that there are layers to this.
You care about what others think. It’s not about what they think of you–rather, what they think of those precious to you. This is not a phase, Mom! Your thirst is greatly expressed through nosebleeds and ardent actions–like cheering and fighting.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Utage Kinoshita, Tamon’s B-Side – The protagonist with the most uplifting spirit! Utage lives the ultimate fangirl dream: being close to her idol. But not in a creepy way! She sets her boundaries. What do you want from her today? A calm, cool, collected housekeeper? An aggressive truther of a friend? Or a feral, fervent supporter?
- Sunako Nakahara, The Wallflower – “They’re too pretty for me! I can never be one of them!” is what Sunako probably tells herself every night before going to bed. But that’s not true! With some encouragement, the creature of darkness becomes the creature of light. Sunako, you’re more capable than you think. Stop putting yourself down.
- Ran Ugajin, Galism – The delinquent boy is all mine! I’m proud of him! He’s not what you think! Ran’s a yearner, as you can see. But this is not a “good girl, gone bad” situation. This gyaru is a good girl with logical reasons to defy a difficult situation. She just…has interesting taste in men.
8. I Can Be a Little Naive. It’s Just That I Care a Lot, My Heart Is Open to Everyone, and I See the Good in People
Sheltered, yet full of life…this chick needs to hatch!
Sometimes, you don’t know what you don’t know until it happens to you. You didn’t have the greatest circle to begin with; therefore, there wasn’t much you could learn from. What’s the difference between right and wrong? These are late bloomers – if I must describe – but that’s not their fault.
You will never second-guess that their intentions are pure and their heart is full of forgiveness. Love makes the world go round (for better or worse). For them, maturity and wisdom come with age.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Teru Kurebayashi, Dengeki Daisy – The most adorable oddball needs to be protected from predators at all costs. Naive? Yes. Pushover? Not really. Teru is a strong girl who learns to be independent throughout the series. The unfortunate part is simply who she surrounds herself with.
- Yuki Cross, Vampire Knight – Not just a pureblood but a self-sacrificer. Sometimes, a thought or doubt does not cross her mind before she makes a decision. She contributes to society purely out of love, even if it’s forbidden. Are you a relative thirsting for blood? Yuki offers herself as an invitation.
- Nana “Hachi” Komatsu, Nana – All that she wants is to be loved and feel secure. Dreams that romance is like fairy tales. Yearn for me as I yearn for you (and you, and you and you!) Hachi has a big heart and makes space for everyone she meets. Unfortunately, she doesn’t possess the skill of multiple choice. Do you choose: A) T*kumi, B) N*bu, or C) N*bu?
- Momo Adachi, Peach Girl – Don’t assume everyone knows common sense. Perhaps lower your expectations…Nope! Don’t do that! Just walk away! Momo’s kindness is taken advantage of, and she hands out “I forgive you” passes like flyers on the street. Surely this is admirable, but maybe to an extent. Momo–know your worth! You can do better.
9. I May Seem Timid on the Outside, But I’m a Hard Worker and Enthusiastic When It Comes to the Things and People I Love
Those who despise you may try to push you down along your journey. It’s imperative that you don’t listen to them; instead, listen to your heart (when it’s calling you)!
Your greatest strength in your growth is being surrounded by the most encouraging people. That “just keep swimming” mentality brought you to places you thought could only be found in dreams.
The fruits of your labor are ripe and ready for harvesting! Thank you for inspiring us all.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Najika Kazami, Kitchen Princess – The most important ingredient is love. For Najika, seeing the warm smiles on the faces of people enjoying her sweets reminds her why she wants to be a pastry chef.
- Ichigo Amano, Yumeiro Patisserie – Her affection for confections is infectious. If you don’t succeed at first, try again. That’s just life. It’s about the journey, not the destination–and Ichigo remains grateful for her three princes and the sweet spirits that make it enjoyable to learn.
- Hanayu Ashitaba, Mixed Vegetables – It takes a lot of courage for a nepo baby to deviate from the path easiest to success. You have the family patisserie legacy; you possess the talent for the craft…but you want to learn to be a sushi chef instead? We love a challenge. What’s a comfort zone? I don’t know her. Kudos to you, future culinarian!
10. I’m Sensitive, and People Can Be Scary, But I Just Want to Feel Accepted
You’re a people-pleaser, or at least you want to be.
To be accepted is to be loved. To be loved is to be understood. But it’s important to not lose the true essence of what makes you, you! Remember: the missing puzzle piece isn’t found in others; you’ve had it all along. You just had to dig a little deeper.
Your shoujo protagonist companions:
- Yukari Hayasaka, Paradise Kiss – Dear Yukari, find someone who loves you for who you are, not who you’re trying to be. You might discover things about yourself if you focus on yourself, not what others think of you.
- Tsukimi Kurashita, Princess Jellyfish – Change if you want it for yourself, not because society tells you to, Tsukimi. You’re a beautiful and kind being, inside and out. The right person will come to you when you’re ready.
So tell me, which shoujo protagonist are you?
