Even though they are hated, these characters teach us a lot that stories have layers and that maturity transforms our way of understanding and seeing their trajectories.
During our childhood, many characters in children’s stories, films and cartoons may seem irritating or incomprehensible at first contact.
So, what they don’t tell you is that we grow up and start to see that your actions have deeper reasons. And that much hated character has a symbolism in his construction that we don’t realize.
6 characters you hated as a child, but grew to admire as you grew up
1. Squidward (SpongeBob Cartoon)
Considered a bad-tempered character in the SpongeBob cartoon, Squidward didn’t have much patience for the games and joy on trips with SpongeBob and Patrick. So, in life, we come to understand that he brings a vision of people who are more mature and tired of some situations.
2. Tom (Tom & Jerry Drawing)
In the cartoon Tom & Jerry, Tom the cat was always chasing Jerry the mouse, but he never managed to catch the rodent once and for all. Thus, he was seen as an eternal persecuting executioner. In adult life, we understand that it symbolizes persistence and dedication, even if the results obtained are not always favorable to what was planned.
3. Professor Severus Snape (Harry Potter Saga)
The Harry Potter film saga teaches a lot about characters that many people hate. So, when we were children, we only saw the rigidity and evil in Professor Severus Snape’s behavior. In adult life, we recognize the character’s symbolism through his loyalty, courage and the sacrifices made for love and for the cause of good. Things are not always as they seem.
4. Scrooge McDuck (DuckTales Cartoon)
Created by Carl Barks in 1947, Scrooge McDuck is known as the richest duck in the world. He was the faithful portrait of financial avarice, he didn’t spend money on anything. Nowadays, as an adult, we realize that he is an example of effort, discipline and appreciation for hard work, despite his exaggerated and excessive behavior.
5. Captain Hook (Peter Pan Cartoon)
Captain Hook seemed like just a simple representation of a classic children’s villain. Aggressive, fearless, he had a rough image. As adults, we noticed that the character’s symbolism represents the fear of aging and the struggle for us to remain relevant in a world in constant social and technological change.
6. Mr. Krabs (SpongeBob Cartoon)
Finally, as a child, he just seemed like a greedy miser who only thought about money and low-maintenance relationships with friends and family. Today, we understand that he is an entrepreneur who values his business and fights to maintain it in a competitive and demanding market.
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