Myth in The Lion King

One of the reasons The Lion King still has such a big impact is because it follows the same structure as classic myths and religious stories. Even though it’s a Disney movie, the film uses patterns that have been used for thousands of years to teach lessons about identity, responsibility, and the struggle between good and evil. The movie feels familiar because it uses the same mythic structure and spiritual themes people recognize from religious traditions.

Simba's Journey

Simba’s story follows the hero’s journey, which is a mythic pattern found in everything from ancient epics to modern films. Comer (2001) notes that The Lion King mirrors traditional myths where the hero must go through loss and hardship before discovering their true purpose. Simba’s exile is not just a dramatic moment, it functions the same way exile appears in religious stories, where leaving home becomes a path toward transformation. His journey from guilt, to avoidance, to finally accepting his identity reflects the kind of spiritual growth seen in figures like Moses, the Buddha, or even Christ in the desert.

The Circle of Life

A major religious idea in the movie comes from the Circle of Life, which represents a spiritual worldview where everything is connected. Eichler-Levine (2024) points out that the theme of interconnectedness is a key part of many world religions, and the film uses it to build a moral foundation. The Circle of Life teaches that every creature has a role and that balance is necessary for the world to function properly. This mirrors the ethical teachings found in Indigenous religions, Hinduism, and certain branches of Christianity that emphasize harmony and stewardship.

Simba's Return to Pride Rock

Simba’s return to Pride Rock works as a mythic return, a key moment in many hero stories. Stan (2019) describes this as the “restoration phase,” when the hero finally steps into their true identity. When Simba returns to confront Scar, the film shifts from a personal journey to a larger moral fight, similar to religious narratives where a chosen leader restores justice and order. King & King (2024) also highlight that modern myths often revolve around renewal and the correction of moral imbalance, which is exactly what happens when Simba takes his place as king.