Strong Female Character?

There has been a lot of online discussion in recent years about the idea of "strong female characters" - what makes a good one, a bad one, etc. All the accusations of sexism, either anti-woman or anti-man have gone along with these discussions, in the glorious, exaggerated way people argue online.

There are questions I've pondered about why certain female characters are held up by media sources and producers as impressive and important examples, while other fantastic characters are ignored. I'm still not sure why this is.

Like, why is Captain Marvel an important female character, while Gamora isn't?

Why is Rey an shining example of a female hero but Michonne (from the Walking Dead) isn't?

I haven't found an answer on this. Granted, I haven't really looked that hard. I'm busy, y'know?

Speaking of the Walking Dead, whether you know it or not, or like it or not, it's had quite a few terrific female characters.

People talk about Ripley, and Sarah Connor as shining examples of female heroes who everyone likes. I would add to these ass-kicking ladies examples like the aforementioned Michonne, as well as her Walking Dead cohorts Carol (one of the great TV characters). Also, there's Beatrix from Kill Bill, and her opponents like Elle Driver and O-Ren Ishi. Terrific, heightened-reality action characters. There's also Starbuck from the updated Battlestar Galactica, and her co stars like Six and Athena.

Actually what I intended to talk about here was the other kind of strong female character. The one who's not all about kicking ass (although they sometimes can if they have to). What about Dana Scully? Or Clarisse Starling? Or President Laura Roslin (again from Battlestar).

These are more vulnerable characters, with more traditionally feminine qualities than the tough kickers-off-butt (although these ladies are accomplished in their fields, and strong willed indeed!).

Incidentally, Wanda from the Avengers movies and WandaVision, even though she's off-the-charts powerful, fits into this more traditionally feminine type.

I'd also give props to the final girls from my beloved slasher series. Creators have said that female leads seem more vulnerable in horror stories, which enhances the fear and stakes - it's also satisfying when these characters find the strength to struggle against their attackers. Shout out to Laurie from Halloween, and Sydney from Scream, and Ginny and Alice from Friday the 13th, and Nancy from Nightmare on Elm Street. So many others!

Anywho, there're some scattered thoughts.
Now come on in; it's ladies' night at club Banes! Half-Price on glasses of water!

Have a good one,

B.