Is Valka a Bad Mother in How To Train Your Dragon 2?

In the panoramic world of animation, few moments resonate as deeply as the emotional reunion in How To Train Your Dragon 2. As Hiccup (voiced by Jay Baruchel) stands face-to-face with his long-lost mother, Valka, the audience feels the rush of longing, expectation, and unresolved emotions. Valka, having abandoned her son in pursuit of a cause, sparks a heated debate about motherhood, sacrifice, and what it means to be a parent.

Recently, licensed therapist Jonathan Decker revisited this poignant film to evaluate Valka’s role as a mother. The saga picks up five years after the original How To Train Your Dragon, which saw a young Hiccup forge an unexpected friendship with the Night Fury, Toothless. This pivotal relationship transformed the Viking village of Berk, altering perceptions towards dragons forever. Valka’s return adds complexity to Hiccup’s journey, drawing both ire and compassion from viewers.

The Parenting Debate: Valka’s Choices

In a Cinema Therapy discussion, Decker and filmmaker Alan Seawright dissect Valka’s character. Decker notes that “a lot of people online are triggered by Valka,” underscoring her controversial decision to prioritize her views on dragons over her family. He questions the morality of her choices: “Do you know how many other ways a mother can help protect and raise a son aside from killing dragons?”

While initially seen as misguided, Valka’s commitment to advocating for dragons reflects a passion that many might admire. Yet, Decker maintains that Valka uses her cause as an excuse to justify her absence from Hiccup’s life. He argues that her reunion with Hiccup hinges more on their shared interests in dragons rather than an innate maternal bond. The complexity of Valka’s character becomes apparent as viewers grapple with understanding her motivations and shortcomings.

Valka’s Journey: Redemption Through Growth

Despite her flaws, Decker emphasizes that Valka’s character is one of depth and realism. “She’s not a bad character or a badly written character,” he asserts. Valka’s journey is rooted in relatable insecurities and conflict, making her resonate with audiences. In her eventual admission of wrongdoing, she exemplifies growth, reflecting how parents can evolve alongside their children.

Valka’s transformation comes to light after Stoick’s death. This moment acts as a catalyst for her change, allowing her to finally grasp the consequences of her decisions. Decker points out that both Valka and Stoick start as imperfect parents but gradually learn and grow. As Valka reconciles her past, she becomes a better role model for Hiccup—showcasing the potential for redemption despite initial missteps.

Valka’s abandonment remains a contentious topic within the fandom, yet Decker believes she ultimately overcomes her failings by the film’s end. While her actions may not absolve her of being a “bad parent,” they do pave the way for a hopeful future in subsequent How To Train Your Dragon narratives. Her struggles become a lens through which audiences can explore the intricacies of parental love, personal beliefs, and the sacrifices we make for those we cherish.

In the grand tapestry of storytelling, Valka serves as a poignant reminder that even flawed characters can inspire growth and understanding. The dialogue surrounding her choices will likely continue as fans of the series dive deeper into the meaning behind each character’s journey, proving that the best stories are those interwoven with questions that linger long after the credits roll.

Sources: Cinema Therapy/YouTube