Isabelle Lightwood (Part One) - Strengths & Flaws

The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare has captivated readers worldwide with its rich world building and thrilling storyline. Set in a vividly imagined universe of Shadowhunters and demons, the series introduces an unforgettable cast of heroes and heroines, and amongst them stands Isabelle Lightwood, who shines as a fierce and strong female character.

Isabelle Lightwood’s Strengths

Fierce Loyalty

Isabelle is deeply devoted to her family and friends. She’s willing to go the extra mile to protect those she loves. Her loyalty is fierce and unwavering, and she always puts her loved ones before herself.

Strength and Courage

Both physically and emotionally, Isabelle is a powerhouse. As a Shadowhunter, Isabelle is competent and exceptional in combat and fearless in the face of danger. Throughout the series, we see her grow and develop both physically and emotionally as she confronts her inner demons and the literal demons that threaten her world.

Confidence and Charisma

Isabelle embodies confidence in her abilities, as well as her appearance and behaviour. Her charisma fosters admiration from those around her and makes her a natural leader that people are inspired by and revere.

Compassion and Empathy

Whilst Isabelle may appear tough and stoic on the outside, she has a heart made of gold and possesses a deep well of emotional intelligence. She often takes on a protective role and cares deeply about other people’s struggles.

Beauty and Elegance

Isabelle’s beauty and elegance are iconic in the Mortal Instruments, but what makes it a strength is how she wields it. She uses her looks as a tool, proving that femininity can be used as a symbol of power and strength.

Sense of Identity

Isabelle knows who she is and embraces it fully. She doesn’t let societal or cultural expectations dictate her actions, instead forging her own path and inspiring others to do the same.

Isabelle Lightwood’s Flaws & Weaknesses

Perfectionism

Isabelle often feels the need to maintain a perfect, sharp exterior, both in her appearance and in her actions. This can lead her to place immense pressure on herself to meet high standards.

Struggles With Vulnerability

Isabelle tends to hide her true emotions behind a confident, assertive exterior. She finds it difficult to open up about her feelings, which can lead her to misunderstand herself.

Impulsiveness

Whilst Isabelle is courageous and decisive, she can also be impulsive, plunging headfirst into situations without thinking things through. This can lead her to put herself and those around her in danger, especially in high-stakes moments.

Fear of Rejection

Isabelle’s fear of being judged or rejected sometimes causes her to push people away emotionally. She struggles to fully trust others with her more tender side, which can distance her from people in relationships.

Stubbornness

Isabelle’s strong will can make her resistant to others’ advice and opinions, especially when she thinks she’s right. Whilst this can be a strength, it can sometimes turn into obstinacy and the reluctance to listen to those around her.

Pride and Defensiveness

Isabelle’s pride makes it hard for her to admit when she’s struggling or needs help. She’s also defensive, isolating herself from others and quickly shutting people out when she feels vulnerable.

Difficulty with Emotional Intimacy

Isabelle struggles with emotional intimacy; she finds it hard to open up about her true feelings and comfortably express herself. She hides behind her confidence, avoiding deep, meaningful conversations about her emotions. This makes it difficult for her to fully trust others, even when she wants to and probably should.

Isabelle’s Exterior vs Her Interior

🌞 Exterior (How she presents herself)

• Polished and confident, wearing bold outfits and high heels

• Uses makeup, fashion and a fierce attitude to exude confidence and strength.

• Walks with confidence and grace, rarely showing hesitation

• Rarely wears her feelings on her face

• Comes off as charming, and in control

• Shows herself to be fearless and brave

💖 Interior (Who she really is inside)

• Deeply self-critical

• Self-doubting

• Battles insecurity

• Feels pressure to be strong

• Yearns for genuine emotional connections and relationships but fears being abandoned

• Struggles with opening up about her feelings

Unlike many characters in books and movies, the way Isabelle Lightwood carries herself hugely contrasts with who she really is inside. Below her mask of confidence and perfectionism, she’s self-critical and deeply insecure. Though she presents herself as being controlled and strong, she craves a long-lasting, meaningful relationship but struggles to let others see her true self.