HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Brave is the story of young Princess Merida and her determination to make her own “Fate
way in life. Fighting the customs of her kingdom and her role was a woman,
she struggles to make her own destiny. moves
This guide is designed to help frame and facilitate a conversation on the themes
and motives behind Pixar’s Brave. Enjoy the conversation! together
THEME 1: DON’T LET PRIDE GET THE BEST OF YOU like a
Although the film is set in medieval Scotland, the challenges of Brave abound in everyday life.
Princess Merida’s first predicament is cock, overreliance on lousy counsel. Bur so intent to
cloth.”
change her destiny, she forfeits the safety of her mother, and nearly loses her completely. – Queen Elinor
Q1 How has your own shortsighted pride ever kept you from fulfilling your goals?

Q2 How has someone else’s pride negatively affected you?

GO DEEPER
It’s not a rare occurrence; often times, when we pursue something whole heartily
we leave others in the dust.

How has pursuing your destiny affected others around you? How can you achieve
balance here, between your own pursuits and the consideration of others?

Read Proverbs 13:10 (GNT)

“Arrogance causes nothing but trouble. It is wiser to ask for advice.”

Do you agree with the Bible? How do you decide what’s good advice and what’s bad advice?

Read Proverbs 12:15 (GNT)

“Stupid people always think they are right. Wise people listen to advice.”

Have you ever dealt with people who constantly think they’re right?
How do you manage their expectations?
 THEME 2: IT’S GOOD TO HAVE FRIENDS
In the film, three clans try to win the hand of Princess Merida. But when all fail and all chaos “Our
fate lives
ensues, it’s the princess herself that reminds the men of what loyalties and friends must remain.

Q1 Share a time in your life when you wanted to cut ties, but remembered your friendship is

Q2
worth more than your argument?

We can disagree with our family and friends all the time, but that doesn’t change the
within
fact that they are an important part of our lives. What work for you in overcoming the
challenges of family life? us; you
GO DEEPER only have
People have banned together throughout all of history to accomplish goals. Just in our short
American history, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement, we can see the
to be
power and strength in numbers.

On a sheet of paper, map out three pros and cons for the value for cultivating close alliances.
brave
What would it take for you to determine it is time to cut ties with a close friend or family member? enough
THEME 3: MAKE YOUR OWN WAY
to see It.”
Even though Princess Merida initially wrecks her life to remake it, she realizes her mistake – Princess Merida
and mends the tapestry that she had cut apart. It may not be easy, but forgiveness
and change are possible.

Q1 What’s a big dream for your life and where did it come from?

Q2 Is this dream your own idea or from another source?

Q2 If your dream came true, how would your world be different?

GO DEEPER
The truth is, we are all very different. Think about how you can work harder to pursue
your dreams while also helping your friends and family to accomplish their own.

We all have a place in our community (or clan!). This week, take time to be more
intentional in your actions and reflect on how fate plays a role in your life.

Conversation Guide brought to you by:

Official movie website:

disney.go.com/brave

© Copyright American Bible Society 2012

*The impact of movies, television and theater on culture is profound, shaping how millions perceive social and moral issues. ABS builds resources for mainstream releases to facilitate culture-reaching conversations,
inviting viewers to use themes presented to explore a new or refreshed relationship with Christ. This should not be perceived as direct endorsement of any particular media content.