damsel in distress

A "damsel in distress" is a storytelling trope describing a female character who is placed in a perilous situation and needs rescue, often by a hero or protagonist. This archetype has been common in literature, movies, and folklore. While it highlights themes of vulnerability and heroism, modern narratives often challenge or subvert this trope by giving female characters more agency and complex roles. In essence, it symbolizes a moment of danger that prompts intervention, but it's important to recognize its limitations and evolving portrayals in contemporary storytelling.