Damsel in distress

Damsel in distress is a classic character in storytelling. One of the earliest examples would be Helen of Troy, who was kidnapped by the Trojans and had to be rescued by the Greeks. A more recent example is Rapunzel, who was held prisoner in a tower, and Sleeping Beauty, who was in a comatose state. The common theme is that they need help, and men in the form of the "white knight" caricature then ride to their rescue.

More recently the concept has come under criticism because it tends to cast women as passive. Recent storytelling more often incorporates strong female figures who are active agents in determining the outcome of their stories.