After the Fact: Radiant Rarity

[@williamstark9568]

The big difference between Rarity and other fashion focused characters is Rarity actually helps other people look good and doesn't just focus on herself... also being well developed.

[@Werezilla]

It's amusing how in any other show aimed at girls, a character like Rarity would be an antagonist. I like what this show has done with her.

[@psycher7]

Definitely. Antagonist or MAYBE a supporting character that the "real" characters go to when they need something. Instead, Rarity is a fully-realized character in her own right. It's that breaking of expectations that goes a long way to her being my favorite.

[@JazzyTyfighter]

A difference between telling someone, "This dress makes you look good" vs. "This dress looks good on YOU..." That, without a doubt is one of the most insightful things I've heard in a long time. Not just for Rarity as a character, but treating others in real life. I applaud you, Silver Quill.

[@joshscorcher]

OI! Claws off best main six, unfaithful villain!

[@arnowrld]

Hi, Josh. Can I do a collaboration with you? Please

[@nikkouhanshabutsuno1028]

You're not going to scare me away if I try to say hello to her, will you? XD

[@MLPSilverQuill]

But I didn't touch Fluttershy at all. ;)

[@leohino9211]

MLP-Silver-Quill didn't you do a video about her?

[@acemeister1624]

talk about your obsession of Rarity, take it easy

[@inumizuno]

my all time rarity line will ALWAYS be: "whining?? i am NOT whining, i am complaining! do you wanna hear whining? thIs iS whInInGgGG-" always cracks me up

[@MissNamine95]

I really appreciate that you point out the fact that to love "girly things" don't automatically mean being weak or negative role models.

[@Takisan111]

The moment I started really liking her was when she beat the Diamond dogs by torturing them into submission. I've seen damsels in distress annoy captors before but no where near as hilariously as Rarity did.

[@june8713]

I love that episode too! My sister and still quote her, "Whining! I am not whining, I am conolaining. This is whining." We died laughing!

[@toddweasly4215]

Definitely and I love when they come to save rarity and the dogs r like PLEASE GET HER OUT OF HERE

[@mylittlekittycorn9753]

+SMar M "Ohhhhh this harness is too tight!! It's going to leave a stain. WHY DO I HAVE TO PULL IT!?

[@jameskaazaeros7087]

"What is that smell?" "Ah, mystery solved. It's your breath." Best rarity moment ever.

[@allisongriffin1939]

Rarity's diamond sharp wit is one of my favorite. Especially when she plays off the others.

[@psycher7]

Pretty much sums up why she's my favorite of the Mane 6. "Feminine" does not mean weak, or stupid, or without value. I think the first time I really noticed a character like that would be Kim Possible: a popular fashion conscious cheerleader...who is smart, friendly, and can kick 8 kinds of ass. Rarity might not LIKE getting her hooves dirty, but if the situation calls for it, she's more than ready. She's an artist, a small business owner, a big sister, and a great friend. I like that, of all of them, she has the most struggle with her Element of Harmony, being by turns greedy and generous.

[@MrMarinus18]

But also she's a true artist. She wants to make dresses that bring out the best in everyone and make them shine to their maximum potential. There is a real value in beautiful clothing and it can help people with their expression. It's also what elevates Pinkie as she not only is a happy personality but she genuinely wants others to be happy and can be very serious in that endeavor.

[@KororaPenguin]

Like how Molly Weasley shows that "stay-at-home mom" is NOT the same as "downtrodden weakling". No downtrodden weakling could have put paid to Bellatrix Lestrange (who, like Riddle, underestimated the power of love to her bitter cost).

[@CalliopePony]

You look very dapper in that tux. One reason I love Rarity is exactly what you said. For a long time "strong" female characters made femininity seem like a bad thing, which defeats the purpose of having female characters. I love that they have a character who is very feminine while still being strong, intelligent, funny, and good-hearted.

[@PokeMaster22222]

This is why I despise most "female" characters in movies and games; they're so masculine, that they might as well not even be female in the first place. Tell me, would Wonder Woman be any different if she was male? Or Captain Marvel? Barbara Gordon? Kassandra, in Assassin's Creed Odyssey? Lara Croft? Edelgard? To an extent, Rainbow Dash and Applejack could also be applicable; they don't show their feminine side all that often, either. I'd prefer more feminine traits in these girls, personally, and for their aggressiveness, stubbornness, and violence to be toned down significantly. Those do not a proper lady make, nor a good girlfriend, wife, or mother.

[@CalliopePony]

There's nothing wrong with a woman being masculine, and no woman needs to meet any man's standards to be a proper lady or significant other. And no girl needs to play up her femininity just to satisfy a potential partner. The important thing is that ANYONE (male, female, or other) should be comfortable expressing however much masculinity or femininity feels right for them. Writing an abundance of tough, masculine women as characters isn't problematic because of any inherent issue with women being masculine. It's problematic because it excludes strong feminine women. The abundance of macho male characters is a problem for the same reason: it excludes males who do not live up to traditionally masculine standards. And that all comes back to the inherently misogynistic view of regarding masculinity as the only way to be strong and powerful. Applejack and Rainbow Dash can be as tough and masculine as they like without detracting from their womanhood. Rarity and Fluttershy can be as feminine as they like without detracting from their strength. And all that matters about that is they are all strong female characters who are true to themselves and express their strengths in the way that is right for them.

[@Deliar12]

@@CalliopePony That's why Poison Ivy, Black Cat, Black Canary, Catwoman and several other characters exist. Those, villians and heroes, are the middle ground. They aren as popular, but they are there still. Most of the time, females that are supposed to be in a hero role SHOULD be masculine. It's in the job. BUT! There are also roles like support, or a spy or a medic, where femininity is not a bad thing. It's simply a matter of perception of the author that made the character.

[@CalliopePony]

@@Deliar12 "Most of the time, females that are supposed to be in a hero role SHOULD be masculine. It's in the job. BUT! There are also roles like support, or a spy or a medic, where femininity is not a bad thing." But why should a heroic role require masculinity? Why limit femininity to support roles? As stated above, Rarity is extremely feminine, yet she is a hero of Equestria. And consider characters like the Powerpuff Girls, Sailor Moon, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. They are extremely feminine while still being heroic. There's absolutely no reason why a heroic character "should" be masculine except that it is what most people are used to, so they accept it without question. If writers make a masculine character the audience will accept them as the hero because that's how it "should" be. If writers go out on a limb and make a feminine hero they will likely be obligated to waste a lot of story time proving the character's validity to the audience because the feminine hero is more likely to be disbelieved/dismissed automatically. And again, it comes back to the harmful idea that masculinity is inherently stronger than femininity. It's not. Masculine people can be strong or weak. Feminine people can be strong or weak. Being more masculine doesn't inherently make you stronger, and being feminine doesn't inherently make you weaker.

[@Deliar12]

@@CalliopePony Oh, i don't know, maybe because heroes in most conventionall sense are...fighters? And or rescue teams? Or soldiers? I am not talking about a kids show, where magic and frienships are the go to things. Im talking superheroes and crime fighters. Im talking space expiditions and dangerous missions. Masculinity IS TO BE EXPECTED. So please, stop being obtuse. If your hero must fight, male of female, he or she must be de facto masculine. Unless AGAIN it's a fight that is not directly with the enemy. Not fisical fight but brain fight. Cunning fight. Women generally are much more dangerous in non fisical ways of defeating their opponents. ANd that is biological and social facts. A grown man will defeat a grown woman in the conrfontation 95% of the time.

[@MrMarinus18]

I think Rarity is one of the cases when Hasbro's meddling actually turned out for the better. Dresses are the most identifiable 'feminine' thing and to have a character like that really drives home the message. LF wanted to focus far more on Rarity's emotional state but the dress making aspect made her the one older fans can identify with and makes the group much more well rounded.

[@AubriGryphon]

Personally, I started to come around when she kicked a manticore in the face. It's always kind of struck me that she's actually the second most willing to resort to violence, after Rainbow Dash.

[@MelodicDragon97]

I appreciate that ending so much. Being feminine doesn't make you weak! Also, being masculine doesn't make you strong! Anyone can be anything! Don't let gender stereotypes hold you back. Seriously, people... If you want to do something that supports a stereotype (a fashion-loving girl like Rarity) or goes against a stereotype (guys who enjoy housework and sewing, etc, like Edd from "Ed, Edd, 'N Eddy"), don't let your gender dissuade you. Be the one who proves society wrong about thinking that everyone is 1-dimensional. There's more to you than what they see. There's more to you than what you're limiting yourself to! Don't let anyone or anything stop you from being who you want to be.

[@Dimadick3]

Hmmm... I do not thing Rarity actually fits the stereotype of a fashion-loving girl. Instead of obsessing about fashion and blindly following trends, she is a fashion designer, a businesswoman, an artist, and a trend-setter.

[@alekmartin4958]

4:48 another point. She knows Applejack well, so she knows that AJ won't take it personally.

[@ashleightompkins3200]

Rarity is probably my favourite pony. Mainly because like her, I'm a creator (though I'm a writer) and thanks to my experience on stage, I know how to be a huge drama queen.

[@futabanarugonzalez3399]

Rarity has grown a lot and has been improving much, with such beauty

[@cybersearcher1041]

Man, I wish I could show this to a class as a lesson on characters and the *BOOM* plot twists it’s about *PONIES*. You’re introspective is amazingly in depth for a kids show and that’s a credit to both fronts. Here’s to you, you hysterically hilarious and whole hearted hippogryph.

[@23gameoverlord]

2:45 omg i luv it when Rarity gets all giddy like this its so cute & adorable. 1:17 pphph hahahahahahahahha omg i love this segment. best pony gives you what for!

[@ShadyDoorags]

"It's the difference between saying...'this dress makes you look good' and 'this dress looks good on you.'" - SIlverquill 2016 Holy dodngos, was that a powerful quote.

[@LazyClay1]

This video is so beautiful. I can't wait for Sunset Shimmer's day, and her video from you SilverQuill.

[@connorschultz380]

we can only hop

[@Rixec2]

I certainly hope we get a Sunset Shimmer video. She may only has had a few animated appearances (the EQ movies), but her impact's grown since her introduction and is, as far as I'm concerned, best pony. ^__^

[@BNuts]

I wouldn't call Rarity the most classically-feminine of the Mane6. That seat, in my opinion, belongs to Fluttershy. But I wouldn't even try to deny Rarity's passion or business-savvy. She is certainly far more than what we thought she was when we were introduced to her in the pilot. It also amuses me that she's at her best when she's acting for others' sakes, which is when Fluttershy also has her Crowning Moments of Awesomeness. I think that's a large part of the show's overall message: You are at your best when you focus on those around you, instead of simply focusing on yourself all the time.

[@forestgrump4723]

I think Rarity represents typical cartoon show girly, Fluttershy represents a demure lady. Rarity for all her desire to fit in with high society is not demure, she is confident enough in what she brings to the table to not put up with anyone's shit in a relationship. Season 1 Fluttershy however would have been ripe pickings for an abusive relationship, but she's come a long way since then.

[@luckystudios9703]

I love Rarity. Specialy because I can relate with most of her problems. I'm graduated in fashion design, and I love alternative fashion (more exatly japanese street fashion). I always saw Rarity as the most mature of the mane 6 (sharing the most mature place with Applejack). She is the most independent one, even though she has her emotional breakdowns, she oftenly doesn't rely on anypony. She does everything all by herself, including the fabrics she uses in her creations....do you have any idea of how badass it is? I mean...she doesn't even by the fabrics, she makes them....that's insane!!!! Her creations are 100% made by her. the best part of her, is that she doesn't show the fashion industry as the perfect glamurous area like many others tv shows. She clearly shows hardwork, exaustion, frustration, dishonest moves some people do, and other stuff like that. Even though it's a kids show it shows perfectly that the glamour in the fashion world is just from the fashion show's walkway to the public. Behind the courtains it's full of sacrifice, risky moves, hardwork and even plagiarism.

[@MrMarinus18]

One thing that also greatly helps Rarity is that a lot of the dresses in G4 were genuinely beautiful. There were some that were forced toy sales but most actually fit them really well.

[@mase5995]

I love Rarity a lot. She may be feminine, but she is still a strong character. My mother reminds me of Rarity but one of my cousins as well. I loved her even more during her canterlot boutique episode. She wants everyone to feel beautiful and special.

[@KinakoIshiyama]

After reading through some of these comments, it seems like I'm the only one who liked Rarity from the start. On top of that, Art of the Dress is still one of my all-time favorite episodes, even after all these years.

[@bobi200samatar6]

I do really hate when, in order to show a female as strong, they have her denounce feminity. Isn't telling girls dresses are bad just as limiting as telling them sneakers are bad?

[@Nothin2seehere-e4z]

Anab Samatar Yep. It's just like saying there's nothing wrong with shaming thin women or being sexist towards men.

[@Dimadick3]

To be honest, I rarely pay attention to what a character is wearing to define him/her as strong. Strong characters, for me, have more to do with well-defined character traits, goals that the character strives to achieve and what methods they are using to do so, and dialogue that reveals some of the character's inner workings and hidden depths.

[@mirandakay6504]

This is why mlp is such a great show! It shows diverse strong female characters accepting femininity.

[@MrMarinus18]

One tendency now is to make strong female characters appear androgynous. Your gender is a part of your identity. It's not your whole identity but no single thing should be.

[@elderscrollsswimmer4833]

And no mention how she dealt with the Diamond Dogs? That's my favorite Rarity episode.

[@Edotter]

I adore the fact that, in most shows, a character precisely like Rarity would be a villain -- and she's not. I got to compliment Lauren Faust on that very fact :)

[@Arkus]

I was in the same boat, initially not liking Rarity but that quickly changed before even the first season ended. Mostly because I think she's the funniest out of the Mane 6 with her emotional moments.

[@barkbitstaketwo]

Now, Silver! You know very well that a cool silver is a better compliment for the classic black look than a warm gold. I demand you change those earrings this instant! (Nice vid, Rarity has fluctuated with me but there are times I love when she proves that you can be girly without being a self-centered brat)

[@MLPSilverQuill]

Alas, that would probably be the only cool Silver in this video. :( What can I say? I'm a sucker for bling.

[@Babbleplay]

'I've received beatings more gentle than one of your fitting sessions' Yeah, but, Silver, you've received like... a kaleidoscope of beatings. Not many have the getting pummeled experience you do.

[@Nazo-kage]

1:19 I figured either that was going to be what happened or Spike was going to tackle him

[@iluvyurbles]

Ethier Spike or Firebrand. It's hilarious

[@calicomarker]

I was hoping for firebrand!

[@avragetrinidadian3787]

Finally!! best horse gets the silver treatment

[@baneto27]

Very Good analysis. It's debateable how canon it is, but Rarity showed those entrepreneurship traits best on her micro comic. That is very interesting because, like you said, she never used the name of another pony to grow, but lended her name and reputation in Canterlot to help Flax Seed and Wheat Grass. And,, sure. I doubt any successful businessperson would have so much free time as she does (well, maybe Richard Branson, but he's one of a kind), but we don't need this level of reality in the kind of show MLP:FIM is. Rarity is, indeed, one of the more complex characters in the show.

[@AshezStar]

so glad to see one of these videos made about the fabulous unicorn Rarity❤ She's truly is my favorite, liking her since episode one. This video explains perfectly all the wonderful & distintive traits Rarity brings to the show 😄 Great Job Silver on this video! keep on reviewing!

[@evenprime]

As a Rarity fan since the first season, I'm always exited to see people warming up for her. :D

[@Midnight3Wonder]

I admit, I also didn't like Rarity's character very much at first, either. I thought of her just the same you did, Silver Quill. But, again like you, Rarity began to warm up to me a strong character who was feminine in all the right ways. Sure she has her downfalls and is still my least favorite of the Mane Six, but I am nowhere near hating her unlike I was when I first met her. At the time when I was first introduced to her character, I hated fashion and thought it was unimportant much like Applejack. However, as Rarity grew closer to my heart, I also began to develop an interest and eventual love for fashion. Now, I'm not into the sparkling, fabulous glam that Rarity so often portrays, but I defiantly have my own taste in fashion that is rather unique yet perfectly reflects who I am without demeaning me to the stereotypical fashion empress. I very much have Rarity to thank for this as she taught me that there was more than one way to be into fashion. I've even been inspired by Rarity to take up fashion classes and the desire to create my own fashions. I was already a creative when I met Rarity, but I have to thank her for expanding my creativity from just the paper to my own wardrobe for the whole world to see. I doubt Rarity will ever rise up to being one of my favorite MLP characters, but she's defiantly one of the many who had inspired me the most. For that, I thank Rarity for being the fabulous pony we all know and love.

[@startheangel9760]

Rarity was more of a drama queen in season 1 but she ended up being one of my favourite characters.

[@RosieSievers]

A great video for my 3rd best pony. I relate to her because of my creative passions through my artwork and videos. Awesome work Silver ^^

[@jacksparrowismydaddy]

kicking a manticore in the face and what she did to the diamond dogs won me over and made me a brony

[@splicetape9435]

Rarity may not be my favorite character in the show, but Tabitha St. Germain quickly became my all time voice actor. Somehow being able to make a scene touching and at the same time possibly out hamming William Shatner.

[@twiggyjali]

Aww I'm glad you made this. Rarity has always been my favorite.

[@twiggyjali]

Rarity is the Magical Girl trope. She's girly, frilly, weaponizes her femininity and sexuality, emotionally high strung, works hard to get what she wants.

[@dracothedrangonful]

Rarity is not my favorite pony but I have learned to appreciate all her quirks and positive traits. She is an important part of the Mane Six.

[@amandaslough125]

Great video Silver. It reminds me of two very good points. This show proved me wrong on so many levels but a big one was characters exceeding my expectations, namely Rarity and Pinkie Pie (lesser extent Applejack or anyone not Twilight). Upon watching them at first, I was focused on very prominent quirks that got on my nerves. I really didn't enjoy them. After not that long though, they each gave me a moment that changed my mind. Many fans went through something similar and it allows us to really adore the characters even more. That is great writing and development (even with episodes themselves being meh at times.) My other point is how important a strong female who maintains a girly direction is. It has been entirely cumbersome trying to grow up and having mixed feelings constantly on having some girly tendencies while still finding them sickening too. It's obnoxious how our society wants women equal but we still have a mindset that we want to have masculine tendencies over feminine ones so we can't win yet. And I really like the 'strong female' characters usually (the spunk is fun) but sometimes the girly character is needed but too often are they dumb or shallow. It's the main reason growing up I adored Kim Possible. Yea people remember her for kicking butt and saving the world, but she still was a cheerleader, and cared about boys and what brand her pants were. She had a balance in her personality that drew me even more to her. We need more of this in media. .... Sorry for the essay! I just kept going.

[@Dimadick3]

"That is great writing and development (even with episodes themselves being meh at times.)" With any episodic series, there are probably going to be episodes which you love, episodes which you hate, and some that are going to be completely forgettable. The writers can not please everyone all the time.

[@thewalrus45]

I took a lot less time to come around to Rarity than most, around the time she kicked a Manticore in the face in the first episode I was like "yeah okay your awesome" then Suited for Success happend and she's been best pony ever sence.

[@DaTrixie]

As a role player, a writer and a grown man with the imagination of a 24 year old girl. Rarity, all that she is. Changed...everything for me. she is more then best pony, she is best character..period.

[@cvcvdfetghgbbhg]

0:46 OK this is an amazing analysis of best Pony and all, but can we take a moment to appreciate that Silver Quill watches Total Drama?

[@papyjr1337]

Excellent video darling ^^ I love how Rarity become more likeable and surpass her stereotype !

[@darkflame728]

I grew up with those characters that hated femininity and it made me not want to do girly things as a kid and a bit self conscious when I did so. Having gotten older and more comfortable acting classically feminine, it's great to see a character like Rarity who acts girly and still has traits I very much admire. She is by far my favorite character. :)

[@thewalrus45]

I honestly think if Rarity wasn't a feminine character she'd easily be the most popular of the cast, she has the most consistently well recieved episodes, a highly praised arc, a great VA pretty much EVERYTHING going for her. It sucks that her being girly makes people project things that aren't there onto her, but at teh same time she wouldn't be near as effective if she wasn't.

[@Maiyinlikesmusic]

what a wonderful video.. you managed to put into words, all the things I love so about Rarity.. I like to think of her, as a fictional rolemodel..

[@KeirStarmerFan123]

Oh, someone decided to wake up from hibernation, I see.

[@HunhowsShadowStalker]

Wait, do hippogriffs hibernate?

[@frosty7411]

Keva the Half-Kestora this one does

[@KageMinowara]

Wouldn't he fly south for the winter?

[@Heyahowsitgoin]

That just doesn't "fly" when you're a reviewer. HEH.

[@shadowtweet]

yeah

[@melanieskala7348]

Thank you very much for bringing more depth on Rarity in the episode, SilverQuill! I hope that you have a great and blessed day/night!

[@lolypop323]

these videos are what save my love for the show. thank you so much for making these wonderful and entertaining videos Silver!

[@Synbios459]

Rarity is BEST PONY!!!!

[@SuperGodzilla2]

i wasnt a fan of Rarity at first but Primus damn it she trotted her way in to my heart, she is now my third favorite of the mane six

[@fourcatsandagarden]

I was completely the same way - I saw Rarity and was like "oh boi lets see if they manage to not fuck up" and they didn't. they really didn't. Rarity is my best pony because they really really didn't.

[@TherrusD]

I really really like Rarity as a character. But there's one thing I dislike about Rarity and that's her treatment of Spike. She KNOWS it wouldn't work whatsoever yet she's still not letting him off the hook because he's convenient. The same goes for many other characters though....Spike's mistreated and I'm happy we got more good Spike episodes as of late. Yet it's one thing I've got problems with.

[@MUETZE198]

AGREED. I know it's a cute ship BUT that all it is. it'll never work and spike has much better options than her

[@deathlegionair]

Yeah, and am I the only one to realize that out of Twilight and all her friends, the former villain is the one that treats him the best.

[@thewalrus45]

Look it's complicated, nothing Rarity can do here is gonna come out good for their relationship, she ether maintains the status quo and lets Spike have false hope or she crushes that hope and possibly breaks their friendship. I think she just can't bear to crush his dreams and so goes with option 1. She's not really USING him though since Spike ENJOYS helping her.

[@TherrusD]

thewalrus45 She could also help him get over her before crushing his dreams. That could work. Frank Poole I disagree. He's treated like a servant at times. Sure there're episodes where he's not mistreated but there still are some where he is.

[@booklover4330]

Yeah I agree; she has to know that Spike has a crush on her; and while she's my third favorite and tied as best pony with Twilight her treatment of Spike could definitely be better.

[@windacream8028]

This is why Rarity is my favorite thank you for summing it up so beautifully Silver!

[@MackenziiRivers]

i do like Rarity, but didnt much appreciate her until the Diamond Dogs episode. Spike wanted to be that hero to her, and i honestly though it would turn out like a damsel in destress moment but i'm glad they didn't. She was strong in that episode, yes Spike still acted like a hero, but Rarity could have gotten out herself, just Spike and the mane 5 got her out a bit quicker, and i liked that, a strong character who is capable of getting out of a situation themselves, but her friends still there to help them out, to show how close they are.

[@koraknight6995]

Love the analysis of Rarity! Also I’m sorry you lost your castle. I’m sure you’ll find another spot. Maybe take a portion of Twilight’s place? Maybe the entire castle since she might be moving to Canterlot (sp)?

[@MasterSwo]

On another note about the Tasty Treat, I'd like to point out how said restaurant was on the brink complete shutdown and NEEDED customers ASAP, and given how the ponies in Canterlot were about unrated restaurants and just what the 3 hooved ones were like, I think it further justifies Raritys attempts to change it to match. It was the only thing she knew of that would work out and do so right away.

[@Animefan8050]

Perfect video for the perfect pony. Great summary of the character, and I shared the first impressions not being great, but once she had her own episode to shine, she instantly became my favourite and has stayed that way.

[@LuniNightwind]

"Yeah when a creative person generally cares about their work, it hurts so much when others casually dismiss it" That right there, is what I would use to describe the creative types who are having a hard time being known. I mostly see tumblr posts and reblogs saying how you shouldn't focus on what other thinks of your work, but its mostly by people who already have a following of sorts, or people who forget about that lesson later. There's a reason why these kinds of people make thank you pics for a reaching a certain amount of followers, or announcing that they lost some. Artist, like myself, are having a rough time in liking our own works, cause there are many people who see it and 'dismiss it'. One could make an artwork of say 'Rarity' that they are proud of. But when they show it to someone who's a big fan or Rarity, but don't even hit the like/fav button like the other pics of her, it can hit someone's self esteem.

[@MLPSilverQuill]

It's a hard balance. To take pride in your own work to not be dependant on recognition, yet not so arrogant that we dismiss constructive criticism. Your average web person is not going to take time to consider an leave well-thought-out feedback. Despite its volume, the net can be a poor place for recognition. I'd urge you to see out some offline gathering places for pony fans if possible. They'll take a greater interest if only out of respect that you're there, in person.

[@LuniNightwind]

MLP-Silver-Quill Wish it were possible but I'm unable to really go to those events due to lack of transport and funds. Most artists with a following I've seen on tumblr often asks for donations to they can be at a convention, which usually works. I know attending places like conventions is a good way to get yourself out there, but when you have no way to get in any of them, it's near impossible.

[@Dimadick3]

Few works of art or fiction lack in similarities with predecessors, so some comparisons are inevitable. Even when the similarities are not intentional. Viewers are going to see patterns, even when the creator does not expect them to.

[@Oliviagarry69420]

Her and Ell from legally blonde are the best version of feminine women in media! Which also fanartist please make Rarity as Ell Woods!

[@alextalbain9269]

Rarity is best pony and nothing will change my mind.

[@dualkitsune3813]

I have grown to love Rarity, bring raised in the south, she reminded me of the "southern belle" type as soon as she kicked that manticore. She's smart, beautiful, always proper and lady-like, but willing to throw down and get her hooves dirty. ...if she absolutely has to.😜

[@vectoredthrust5214]

While twilight sparkle is my favourite of the mane six, I've always felt that Rarity was the best-written on the Mane Six, and for every single reason you've described here I cannot express how grateful I am that my youngest sister, who's traditionally feminine to contrast with my tomboyish younger sister, has a role model for being a strong, independent woman who doesn't reject femininity. She's the fashionista, but she's an artist who's clothes are her medium, and she's a self-made businesswoman. She's used her feminist to her strengths, and can't help but cheer "you go, girl!" at her Rarity is my youngest sister's favourite pony and an inspiration to her. She's still young but already has a desire for an ambitious career path and I hope the example Rarity sets will inspire her to achieve it As you said, this show has proven there's more than one way to be a girl. How many other shows have such a diverse group of well-written role models relevant to whatever your passion is?

[@TheWTFworks]

YES! FINALLY! QUEEN RARITY! ^.^ Thank you silver!

[@ComissarYarrick]

Videos like this remind me why I love Rarity so much :).....

[@taylorh1872]

I agree, even though I'm not into fashion. Rarity is my second favorite of the mane six. I appreciate her artistic struggles because as a (unpublished) Author I can understand the many struggles she faces. I love how she stays determined and true to herself which is why I agree and said Rarity is truly radiant. And like Silver Quil I wouldn't trade her for anything!!

[@garyk3478]

She's risen a lot in my estimation, too. I think that's common. She's probably my second favorite at this point. Though I think a lot of that also goes to the vocal talents of St. Germaine.

[@FreyjaCaelan]

silver quill. 2 words nailed it you hit it spot on and even probably made me this this is one of your best videos. respect man respect *bows to the quill*

[@Xohadarc]

A tribute to one of my favorite character's in animated history? By one of my favorite youtuber's ever? I couldn't have dropped everything faster! I have no doubt that I have Rarity to thank for getting me into this show! I started watching it out of determination to try to get to the bottom of how people could like it, and several episodes in I was struck by the talent that went into writing Rarity. It felt as if she'd been purposefully designed to shine in the face of as many stereotypes as possible, stereotypes any other show for little girls would have accepted or even encouraged! She was well rounded in terms of virtues and flaws, struggling with greed despite being the element of generosity. Her "passion for fashion" is a creative outlet, not some shallow bid for popularity. She seems like damsel material but can fend for herself. She tries desperately to emulate high society and act all prim and proper but often let's her act slip to amusing effect. I found her extreme emotional state more amusing than Pinkie's antic's at that point at least and she was so delightfully self aware about her ridiculous behavior! Come suited for success and a dog and pony show and I had to call her my definite favorite character even though at that point I was adamant that I was only "studying" the show. It was moments of Rarity that got me to keep watching into the next season, that always entertained me, interested me, and made me sure that there was talent and enjoyment yet to be found. Not far into season 2 sisterhooves social and sweet and elite basically had me fully convinced and several seasons later I'm still here! And I don't think I would be if the first 2 seasons didn't have so many good Rarity centered episodes and if she wasn't the character she is! So without any hesitation I feel I can say as a fully realized fan of the show: Rarity is best pony!

[@anthonyanderson3448]

That sums up why Rarity is my favorite. She not only embraces her feminine side but also not afraid to show it. I like it when she is not giving gifts but when she strives them to better themselves. I really love that. Also A dog and pony show showcases her personality in a nut shell. She wasn't what all of her friends imagine to be and yet manage to out wit the dogs by using her feminine charm. Now at times she can over do it like sometimes pinkie does but she isn't perfect another trait I like she is not perfect.

[@Dimadick3]

None of these characters are perfect. Much of the characterization of the show has to do with a balancing act between their strengths and their flaws.

[@outtagoodnamesdangit]

Great video, Silver! And a fitting tribute to the pony who ended up being a lot of people's surprise favorite.

[@nikayalohr9707]

I was like you in the beginning. I never got along with the 'fashionistas' of my schools. And I'm a tomboy. So I never really found a connection. The characters that stood out to me where who the ones reflected me and my friends. And that's Twilight (me, seeing as I am a huge nerd and I accept that...), Fluttershy (My friend Paige. She had a beutiful voice, was an amazing artist, and was so kind, but was so shy), and Applejack (Eva, my oldest friend, and is so honest, makes mistakes, makes up for them, and has a brave and courageous heart.) None of my friends I saw in Rarity. All I saw where those girls who tried to put me down because I wasn't like them. It took me till 'Art Of The Dress to realize there a was a little bit of Rarity in, (pause for dramatic effect) none other than myself. I write stories, I write songs, and I am an artist, and sadly, I know the feeling of rejection. I was singing my heart out in Music class, and my teacher straight out called me out in front of the entire class and said I was a horrible singer. I took that to heart, I didn't belt out lyrics to my favorite songs any more. My parents noticed it, and I told them what happened. My mom went and yelled at my teacher for saying that, and she just shrugged it off and said she didn't remember saying that. But all of the students in the class heard her, and even with all of that, it took her three months after that to apologize. And let me tell you, it wasn't very heartfelt either. And that was one of my worst cases of rejection. Another case happened, again with singing, and me and a group of people I hsed to consider my friends rejected me because I couldn't sing. It didn't hit me as hard as before, but it hurt because I thought they where my friends. So Rarity, I know what you go through, I've been hurt, torn down, flat out mistreated because I was rejected. Abd to all those feeling the same things, keep trying again and again. Finsh that story, post that video, belt out your favorite song, because nobody decides what's good and bad about you. That's for you and you alone to decide. "Some people are simply going to reject you simply because you shime brighter than them. That's okay, keep shining" -Unknown

[@futabanarugonzalez3399]

Looking fabulous Silver Quill 😘

[@kipofthemany2213]

I love these episodes! They do a good job of showing off the best in the characters. It helps me appreciate the characters more despite the occasional pitfall episode.

[@thewalrus45]

Also a lot of people think this is weird but I think the two most similar characters in teh show are actually Rarity and Rainbow, they just occupy opposite ends of Tomboy V Girly Girl. The big difference though is, Rarity's arc and characterization has been pulled off far more consistently strong than Rainbows.

[@Dimadick3]

While I think Rarity and Rainbow Dash both strive to improve their station in life, and share a need for their efforts to be appreciated, I can see other similarities. *Rarity and Applejack have similar work ethics, and have to play parental roles towards their much younger siblings (Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom). *Rarity and Fluttershy are in part defined by their kindness towards others, and both lash out when sufficiently frustrated. *Rarity and Twilight Sparkle are the only magic users among the main characters, and both rely on their magic in numerous ways. When Discord simply removed their horns and their powers, they were both in anguish. *Rarity and Pinkie Pie both go out of their way to see other people smile, and seem to think it their mission to spread joy.

[@siriusface6171]

This was a pretty excellent video on a pony I honestly like the least. One thing I really have grown to enjoy about SQ's videos is the amount of research he does and the examples he pulls up to prove his arguments. Very good job here, hope to see more in the future.

[@splatterpaint1808]

I LOVE RARITY SOO MUCH

[@Fabiorobertsousa]

Thanks Silver for making this one, I was waiting for her video.

[@magicnote2103]

I'm looking forward to a Pinkie Pie celebration. What would it be called? Perfect Pinkie Pie?

[@kaylafincher3610]

Pinkie Palooza?

[@hello-sj8cf]

Me too! Maybe Pinkie Party?

[@Voltorb1993]

Yeah, we need to celebrate the best pony! *avoids rocks* well, she is the best pony in _my opinion_ , ok?

[@magicnote2103]

Voltorb1993 She's my favourite, too

[@101Draico]

I would have gone with Party Animal Pinkie

[@RinaRavyn]

I liked rarity even in season 1! Not because i like acting as if im a hipster, but i adored her over the top enthusiasm for fashion and drama queen attitude wich added sooo much cartoonish fun for the show to me. If it wasnt for rarity, i wouldve stopped watching MLP after season 1. *ESPECIALLY after* the best night ever :D

[@ErikButterworth]

Great work with another After the Fact tribute to one of the Mane Six, Silver Quill! Can't wait for the next one!

[@DaylightTwinkle]

0:35 you better watch out cause spike will come after you! Lol

[@MrMarinus18]

2:25 That trope seems to have died off considerably. I really can't think of any major cartoon or anime characters that are like that. There are those where the femininity never comes up but never really where they reject it. I actually like those moments where a really strong female is presented as still able to be beautiful and not in a comedic or sadistic way.

[@Acernis]

That was absolutely beautiful. Thank you very much for doing this :)

[@SpyroTheEternalNight]

_really_ liked the video - as always! i think Rarity is a bit underappreciated.

[@fayriflair]

Now all we need is "Spectacular Spike" :)

[@TheZedThing]

Pixzell Spectacular Spectacular Spike!

[@Daralyndk]

Rarity is very unique character and some of her episodes belongs to the best episodes in show at all... ...Suited for Success, Rarity takes Manhattan, Rarity investigate or The Saddle Row Review - to name just a few as such she definitely deserves her own AtF episode and this one definitely gives her respect. She is my most favorite waifu...eh ehheh... (you didn't seen anything, and even if you did I'll deny it anyways) ...so as I was saying - ehm - she is my most favorite pony and I approve this episode

[@Dimadick3]

To be honest, "Rarity Takes Manhattan" does not exactly paint Rarity in the best light. She gets reacquainted with an old friend that she has not seen in several years, offers her special fabric for free to said "friend", and then gets betrayed and her work plagiarized by said friend. Rarity comes off as overly trusting and hopelessly naive. She basically created her own problem. The episode reminded of the comic book story "The Terror of the Transvaal" (1993). A young Scrooge McDuck saves the life of a complete stranger, travels with his new "friend", and trusts him to stand watch at night while he sleeps. The "friend" steals Scrooge's supplies and equipment, and leaves him to die in the wilderness. Scrooge has faced villains before, but this is his first time being betrayed by someone he trusted. The lesson he learns is to not place his trust on others. Eventually, Scrooge comes to distrust his own sisters and other relatives, being unable to place his trust on anyone at all.

[@RaptorRed]

rarity was always one of my favorites ever since the first episode. nice video and i too love rarity. i hope to see more to her character. i hope others don't think she's acting out of character just because she's doing something we haven't seen her do yet.

[@yummy60nice42]

Silver you have never cests to amaze me, because while I've just subscribed to you I've been a fan of your for years and I love how you always mange to bring out the best in MLP and the worst of it just like you did here with Rarity.Bravo silver, I tip my hat to you.

[@Fangedfilms]

an excellent video celebrating the bearer of my own personal virtue well done silver as always.

[@astrocitizen]

4:51 -- I always thought this character Rarity shoved into one of her dresses looked familiar. Suddenly realized the other day she's essentially a pony version of Patty, one of Meg's friends on FAMILY GUY.

[@lexibushnell4459]

Rarity was the one who got me into MLP. The first episode I watched was Sweet and Elite and I found myself pleasantly surprised that she was likable. Then I started watching from the first episode and by the end of A Dog and Pony Show, I was a Brony. She is everything I am against in femininity, yet she EARNED my respect. Bravo Rarity!

[@Scappo]

"Rarity Investigates" gave me the vapors more than once... Awesome video- I was wondering when you'd finally get around to praising Best Pony!

[@lunalilyrubydiangeloniliho4738]

Whoa, Silver! Tread lightly. I can see it now... Shippers, shipping you and the fair lady Rarity together. Or was that your angle all along? I can never truly tell with you. Anywho's I really enjoyed this AtF and it was spot on! Can't wait for the next upload!

[@matthewreisiger5775]

Great video! Rarity was my least favorite of the Mane 6 for quite a while, but she's really grown on me a lot. Now she's my #3, after Pinkie and Fluttershy. :D

[@earthbind83]

Nice video! I like Rarity as well for being a high-class beauty-pony who is actually likeable what with her embodying the element of generosity. A character like her is definitely a first for me to have seen. I kinda feel bad for her, because her seductive abilities only work when she wants to manipulate some guy, but never when she's honestly interested in somepony. I would really like to see either somepony resisting her manipulation or somepony falling in love with her due to her charms. Actually I would like to see both things happen. I think Applejack is the most mature pony out of the mane six and that her maturity went even far enough so that fans started to not see her as a main character any more, because she seemed to lack growth, because she was so wise most of the time and she has generally been a pillar of support. That's why I have liked her the most for a long time, but in the last few seasons it seems like she was dumbed down a couple of notches. But I do like her kind of music. Apples to the Core is still my favorite song.

[@Dimadick3]

Applejack... wise? The writers never gave her any intellectual interests and rarely give her any challenge which requires wits to accomplish. She is also the only main character who never left her childhood home, never adapted into a new environment, or ever left her comfort zone. I always consider Applejack the least mature main character, and mainly characterized by pride and stubbornness.