Y’all are saying Helena is being forced but she does have a mouth, she can say she’s uncomfortable and I will never respect her for not speaking up for herself. She calls everyone by their first name she has at least that much power and leeway to say she’s uncomfortable
idk why we underplay class as an oppressed minority more often, like we’re talking feudal times, at this time princes used to rape maids and tell the maids to be happy they got royal attention, idk why you think she ever as a realistic character needed to have to speak out to have it known that she’s uncomfortable
Even if she speaks out, it would mean nothing to the prince and empress. She'd just look ungrateful to them or crown prince would just blame Eris again. Women doesn't really have the "right" to speak out during those time. Remember, how many sacrifices, rallies, efforts and all the things women did, for us to enjoy the kind of rights we have today. That is why, female characters who are brave and courageous during those timelines are amazing. Because they would have to realize what's wrong first (even when everyone, society and culture tells them is right) and the courage to fight (even when they're told that being pretty and having a son is their only purpose). The kinds of rights (even voting and education) is a luxury for them before and basic rights for us today.
Bro I love this so much