The Untold Story: Was Li Shang Bi in Mulan?

29 May 2024

The animated Disney film Mulan, released in 1998, captured hearts worldwide with its tale of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her ailing father's place in the Chinese army. While the film is lauded for its themes of courage, family, and self-discovery, one question has lingered in the minds of many viewers over the years: Was Li Shang, Mulan's commanding officer and eventual love interest, intended to be bisexual?

This question arises from a close reading of Li Shang's character arc and his evolving relationship with Mulan, both as Ping, the male soldier, and later as herself. Fans point to scenes where Li Shang seems drawn to Mulan's strength and determination, qualities he initially admires in "Ping." This ambiguity, whether intentional or not by the filmmakers, resonated with viewers, prompting discussions and debates about representation and character interpretation.

It's important to acknowledge that the term "bisexual" and its understanding in contemporary Western culture might not directly map onto the cultural context of the original film, which draws inspiration from a Chinese legend. However, the question of Li Shang's sexuality, or at least the ambiguity surrounding it, opens a door for meaningful conversations about representation in media.

The lack of explicit confirmation from the filmmakers has allowed for a range of interpretations. Some viewers believe that Li Shang's attraction to Mulan, regardless of her presented gender, suggests a fluidity in his feelings. Others argue that his initial attraction to "Ping" stemmed from admiration for a fellow soldier, evolving into romantic love only after Mulan's true identity is revealed.

Regardless of one's interpretation, the discourse surrounding Li Shang's character highlights a broader desire for diverse representation in children's films and media in general. The conversation surrounding his character reflects a growing awareness of the importance of seeing oneself reflected in stories and the power of media in shaping perceptions.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the "Was Li Shang Bi?" Debate

Advantages	Disadvantages
Promotes discussions about representation and diversity in media.	Can lead to misinterpretations or the projection of personal biases onto the character.
Encourages viewers to engage critically with the film and its subtext.	The lack of a definitive answer can be frustrating for those seeking clear-cut representation.
Highlights the evolving understanding and acceptance of different sexual orientations.	Discussions about representation need to be handled sensitively and respectfully to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

While there might not be a definitive answer to the question "Was Li Shang bi in Mulan?", the very act of asking and engaging in the conversation holds value. It pushes us to examine our own assumptions, appreciate the power of subtext and interpretation, and advocate for more diverse and nuanced portrayals in storytelling. Ultimately, whether Li Shang was written as bisexual or not, the impact of his character and the discussions surrounding him contribute to a broader cultural shift towards greater understanding and inclusion.