As many people who watched the Disney movie, "Moana," can attest to - it was a fantastic film with an exceptional storyline. However, there is one significant question that remains unanswered for all its fans - what's Moana's last name?
It may seem like a trivial matter to some, but understanding her full identification could provide crucial insights into her personality and heritage. So let's dive right in and demystify this mystery once and for all!
The Debate Over Last Names
Before we discuss the possible answers to Moana's identity conundrum, let us first take a step back and examine why there is even a debate over last names.
Many people believe that since ancient times, individuals only had one name due to cultural preferences or customs; others think that adoption across cultures contributed to shared surnames.
In both cases, it would be highly unusual for someone living on an island as small as Motunui not to have inherited any family names from their parents or ancestors. But then again, perhaps they did not have such things so much as part of their culture.
Could It Be Possible That Her Father Forgot To Give Her A Surname?
According to Hawaiian traditions- which influenced Polynesian island culture- if you were related by blood or marriage/adopted - relationships always included 2 components: 'Ohana' (family) & ‘Aina’ (land). This topic alone merits another article!
Her father’s surname isn’t mentioned either….so do fathers forget things too? I mean…who doesn't love asking elementary questions like this...#LOL#
Well rest assured his amnesia has been cleared up. Turns out Chief Tui’s first name is Sina
This information leaves plenty more room for speculation because although we know who he is now referred...
She Did Not Have A Surname Initially
Moana's struggle to find her identity may stem from her lack of a family name. Since there was no mention of a last name usage by any other member in Moana's family, it is highly likely that she did not have one while growing up.
This possibility is supported by the fact that Polynesian cultures are known for using alternate ways to identify people- such as nicknames or family relation titles - instead of traditional surnames when dealing with close friends and kin.So perhaps Moana never had one at all?
The Search For Moana's Last Name Begins
It wasn't until someone asked the question about Moana's surname that sparked a search for an answer began.
Fans scoured through merchandise products, movie credits, and even cross-referenced ancient mythologies in their attempts to shed light on this elusive mystery. Yet none produced concrete evidence explaining what Moana’s last name could be! The suspense is killing me #LMFAO#
However, people did come across possible clues that hinted towards logical conclusions.
Potential Hints Surrounding Her Identity
There isn't an explicit indication regarding Moana’s lineage, but various details were picked out throughout the film which provides accurate insights into her personality & heritage.
One detail suggesting her 'Maori' ancestry imprinted on some of Motunui’s art sketches dotted around homes on Moto-nui…“Manaia designs”- representing power; balance
Could Manaia have been integrated into moanas’ surname somewhere along tribal/extended family roots?
Other than giving hints via design tattoos/symbols emblems; digging deeper we might find answers buried underneath literal mana (the word meaning spiritual energy).
A side note: Traditional Maori also follow physical signs present during birth time represented through tattoos peculiarly symbolising potential rank within tribes/offspring prediction (terrible twos probs…) on them.
These designs were not present on Moana, so it’s unlikely that she could be part-Maori, except….
Her Grandfather's Involvement
It might sound strange in a culture with strict ancestral ties , but we can't rule out the possibility of Moana's estranged father being related to her grandfather.
The film did not explore this idea too extensively - leaving room for interpretations. However, some fans assert that their shared interest in sea voyages and exploration shows an indication of possible links between these two people-in contrast to other members depicted as land-dwellers!
But then again…it doesn’t seem like common practice would allow deviation from established tribe ancestry...so is there another explanation?
Could She Be Of Fijian Or Tokelauan Descent?
Another theory revolves around Moana having Fijian or Tokelauan heritage since both cultures are known for having a shared linguistic background with Maori.
However- as mentioned previously; Motunui art adorned homes…
Now even though it might be general knowledge that Polynesian island groups share cultural similarities - factual distinctions exist among each group unique traditions vary prevalently. Not all islands speak the same language or do things similarly.
It Might Just Remain A Mystery Forever…..
We may never know the truth about Moana's last name unless Disney decides to come forward and provide its audience with closure regarding this heated debate over her identity.
Regardless of what decision they will make - we should appreciate the movie directors’ efforts accurately portraying traditional Polynesian Islander home-life while capturing essence captivating audiences globally
One thing remains vital-moanas determination & fighting spirit proving how dreams plus persistence can materialize against seemingly insurmountable obstacles-defining who you are entails taking up feats unimaginable due by focus unlocking potential
Moanas story demonstrates those gains hard-fought remain more meaningful than anything attained without breaking out of your comfort zone; the ultimate message being ‘who you are is something that cannot be taken away but rather discovered through challenging boundaries’
And there we have it, folks. The end of the quest to uncover Moana’s last name has come to a head. For now though - let’s appreciate the story for what it is- whether or not she had a surname at all- remains insignificant compared to the inspiring lessons and character traits portrayed throughout her journey.