A major theme that can be seen throughout Howl’s Moving Castle is identity, and Sophie the protagonist, is probably the best example of finding true identity. In the start Sophie had already established herself as an ‘old woman,’ and after becoming cursed, she commented on how her ‘old style clothes’ suited her better now. But sooner or later, Sophie realised that being old and boring wasn’t what she really wanted to be. She wanted to be free and longed to know her true identity. She did this by breaking her barriers, standing up for what she believed in, and by accepting the person she was. In the end, Sophie discovered her true identity, where she was confident, bold and self-assured. Even though Sophie had a terrible curse put upon her, she saw her new age as an opportunity to take chances and abandon her safe and responsible lifestyle. The movie was also about accepting your identity, in cases of Howl and the Witch of the Wastes. Both characters desired to look perfect, and believed that there was no point in living if they weren’t beautiful. In order to have a perfect appearance, both characters used endless lotions, potions and magic to preserve their young appearance. But in the end, Howl learns that it isn’t all about appearance, but the person you are on the inside, and the Witch of the Wastes also understands that its not how people look, but the love and care they show for you.