RWBY: An inspirational animated series

Created by the late Monty Oum of Rooster Teeth, an American production company in Austin Texas, RWBY is a television show that stands for (R)ed, (W)hite, (B)lack, (Y)ellow and refers to the respective team of four very powerful women based off the fairy tales; Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, Belle, and Goldilocks respectively.

World of Remnant

                The story begins in a very elaborate and creative world of Remnant whose inhabitants are based around fairy tale stories and enemies are reminiscent of the “Creatures of Grimm.” The titular character, Ruby, is brought into an epic quest to discover who she is, what her destiny is, and together with her team “RWBY” including her sister, Yang, not-so best friend Weiss, and loner ally Blake adventure in a beautiful and well written saga to discover the villains plan. 

                Characters in RWBY use a magical enhancement known as Dust to empower their weapons, skills, and abilities. Each character in the series has unique combat skills, weapons, and tactics, and almost every single character presented in the series can fight. One of the most interesting aspects, and definitely a better piece of it, is that not only are the main character’s female, but a majority of females fight in the show. This is a wonderful addition, as in so many cultures, women were not portrayed in television and cartoon shows, as powerful – let alone able to handle their own. However, in RWBY, the creators have done a wonderful job of integrating a very unique and powerful approach to their female characters.

Ruby Rose

                Ruby, written after the Little Red Riding Hood character, wields a powerful scythe which can turn into a sniper rifle and, while integrating Dust, can use her scythe as a rocket to propel her quickly across the battlefield as if to fly. Though not the most powerful character in the series thus far, Ruby has a heart of gold and an innocent, sweet, and kind persona to compliment her wild and crazy battle style.

Weiss Schnee

                Weiss, German for “White Snow” alludes to the character of Snow White. She possesses a stalwart and noble attitude that comes off as cranky, irritable, and spoiled. As an heiress to the Schnee Dust Company, she naturally has many enemies both human and otherwise, who wish to see her gone. Weiss uses a revolver that can transform into a rapier, and small canisters of Dust particles that can change her elemental battle style (fire, lightning, ice, etc.). As a special ability, known as a Glyph, she can create magical barriers that will either shield her and her allies, or allow them to move quicker, faster, or along vertical surfaces. Later in the show, she also learns the ability to summon creatures she had defeated in the past. Although for the most part cold all over, Weiss’s dedication to her comrades melts whatever ice may solidify her heart.                      

Blake Belladonna

            Blake Belladonna was named after the main character of Beauty and the Beast, albeit the allusion of Bella/Belle in French from her surname. Blake is the loner of the group, preferring to do things her own way and on her own. She is very tough and strong-spirited overall, but symbolizes the stereotypical character of someone who doesn’t belong, nor fit in, due to her racial heritage, as discovered in the show. Blake uses a ninjato, or ninja-sword, with an attached pistol in the hilt which itself has a long ribbon attached to it. While she fights like a ninja, she also uses a special ability, or semblance, to create “Shadow” clones of herself. Being the loner of the group, Blake also enjoys reading, animals, and has shown time and time again she will not leave her friends behind who are in need which alludes to her more peaceful nature.

Yang Xiao Long

Yang Xiao Long, translated loosely to “Little Sun Dragon” and is referencing Goldilock. She is the half-sister of Ruby and is the powerhouse of the group. Always looking for a fight, adventure, or a chance to travel, Yang is very optimistic. However, when she is getting beat down or made fun of, especially in combat, her hot-headed side comes out and improves her power, speed, etc. Yang fights with shotgun gauntlets and uses martial arts and tactics to win, relying on her endurance and constitution to build up her semblance in order to get stronger. While Yang is the optimist of the group, she is always the quirky, fun, and loving character that brings the team in high spirits.



RWBY is a television show that combines the best of action, story, character development and plot which reinvents the classic fairy tale and Grimm story tales. The show also gives a dynamic approach to lead female characters who are not scantily clad. Rather, the female leads are great inspirations for the women of today’s age of heroes and superheroes alike. Both men and women will enjoy this show if they can appreciate a unique approach to a cartoon/anime hybrid that mixes the best of all worlds in a truly satisfying and addictive experience.