The Zelda series is filled with iconic, memorable female characters, from the various iterations of its titular princess to childhood friends, impish sidekicks, women warriors, and so many others. And what’s more, these characters often have wonderful musical themes that perfectly encapsulate who they are and how they fit into the story. For this International Women’s Day, I thought I’d highlight some of my favorites.
Before we get started though, I have to acknowledge that there were so many themes I wanted to cover. Here are some honorable mentions: “Sheik’s Theme,” which is uplifting and whimsical, and communicates a feeling of hopefulness; “Medli’s Awakening,” which fills your soul with a sense of freedom; “Malon’s Theme” (or “Epona’s Song”), which has a simplicity much like the life of Lon Lon Ranch’s unaffected inhabitants; and “Agitha’s Theme,” which is just as quirky as the princess of bugs who lives in her imaginary, bug-filled palace.
In no particular order, here are some of my favorite iconic themes for women throughout the Zelda series.
1. “Zelda’s Lullaby” (Ocarina of Time)
For many Zelda fans, this was the first iteration of Zelda we ever encountered, and so this theme is at the heart of the series. Although naive at first, Princess Zelda in Ocarina of Time is central to Link’s journey and the fate of Hyrule, and the goodness in her soul is apparent from the very beginning.
“Zelda’s Lullaby” solidifies that fact, as it sounds so pure and gentle. Perhaps too pure, in fact. After all, it sadly takes seven years and a Sheikan disguise before Zelda becomes fully prepared to help Link and the other Sages defeat Ganondorf. But in any case, it effortlessly encapsulates the goodness of Hyrule’s princess.
2. “Midna’s Theme” (Twilight Princess)
Quite opposite to the previous theme, yet nevertheless equally central to the series, “Midna’s Theme” from Twilight Princess tells us that she is a mysterious and soon-to-be tragic character. It’s actually somewhat contrary to her quippy, mischievous personality, but that duality is exactly what makes her interesting and well-liked among fans, so reflecting another side of her through her theme is a wonderful artistic choice.
I would have picked “Midna’s Lament” here, as that’s truly a masterpiece, but you can read all about what I think of it in another piece I wrote.
3. “Saria’s Song” (Ocarina of Time)
With the Kokiri Forest and the Lost Woods both representing eternal childhood, it’s no wonder that they composed “Saria’s Song” (also known as the “Lost Woods Theme”) to have a youthful playfulness about it. After all, Link’s childhood friend Saria, the creator of this song, will always be his connection to his lost childhood.
I could wander around the Lost Woods for hours listening to it. And so could Darunia, who catches it occasionally pouring through the secret entrance to Goron City. His free-spirited dancing explains how great this song is better than words ever could.
4. “Fairy Queen Theme” (The Wind Waker)
There have been a number of iterations of this theme throughout the series, and The Wind Waker’s version for the Fairy Queen is by far my favorite. The Great Fairies are usually incredibly beautiful, elegant, adult women who aid Link’s quest. But the Fairy Queen in The Wind Waker has the form of a child, which was a refreshing take on the recurring character.
And her theme is a fitting re-creation. It still maintains the iconic melody and vocals, but introduces some quirky, bouncy instruments that give it a playful, yet somewhat mischievous and even potentially unsettling tone overall. It’s perfect for an all-powerful being who, without the maturity of an adult form, could be quite a chaotic and unpredictable entity indeed.
5. Marin’s “Ballad of the Windfish” (Link’s Awakening)
The “Ballad of the Windfish” song is unquestionably iconic, and the girl behind its beautiful melody, Marin, is equally a series staple. Its melody is exquisite, uplifting you high into the clouds like a dream. The version from the 2019 Link’s Awakening remake is particularly incredible, with Marin’s airy, hope-filled vocals complementing the ocarina perfectly. It stays with you long after you’ve awoken from the incredible journey she joined you on.
6. “Gerudo Town Theme” (Breath of the Wild)
OK, yes, I am cheating including this, but I’m (not) sorry — all the Gerudo are amazing, powerful women and I think that should be acknowledged for International Women’s Day. They don’t conform to typical femininity, they are not damsels in distress, and they reflect underrepresented races in real life.
But anyway, the reason we’re here is that they have awesome music. “Gerudo Valley” was too obvious, so I thought I’d highlight another piece that became an instant favorite when I heard it: the “Gerudo Town Theme” from Breath of the Wild.
It has such a relaxing vibe, which reflects the oasis-like nature of the gorgeous town and the laidback nature of the Gerudo who are able to let their guard down in their hometown. And yet, the underlying drumbeat reflects the alertness that many Gerudo must maintain as warriors, lest a sneaky but very pretty Voe is allowed to sneak into their women-only town.
7. “Ilia’s Theme” (Twilight Princess)
Ah, Ilia, the controversial childhood friend of Link in Twilight Princess. Some fans hate her, others are forgiving and can find great qualities in her. I’m somewhere in the middle area of indifference, but mostly leaning towards the prior because I absolutely hate amnesia tropes. And yet, I have to give credit where it’s due: Her theme is really something special in its simplicity.
That kalimba and flute are a gorgeous combination, reflecting the purity and security of Faron and Ilia as a lifelong friend (when she’s in a good mood). It’s a truly relaxing melody that will make you forget all about your worries, just like Ilia forgets about Link.
Happy International Women’s Day, everyone!
