How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming - Characters & Cast
Character Analysis
Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III
Jay Baruchel
Motivation
To preserve the memory of the bond between humans and dragons for the new generation of Vikings who have never met them.
Character Arc
Hiccup's arc is one of a leader and father trying to ensure his legacy and the history of his people are not forgotten. He moves from worrying about his children's fear to taking proactive, creative steps (the pageant) to educate them, embodying his growth from an awkward boy to a wise chief.
Astrid Hofferson
America Ferrera
Motivation
To ensure her children grow up understanding the true, peaceful history of dragons and to support Hiccup in his role as chief and father.
Character Arc
Astrid serves as the emotional anchor and pragmatist. It is her idea to revive the Snoggletog Pageant. Her arc is less about personal change and more about reaffirming her role as Hiccup's partner in leadership and parenting, providing the crucial idea that sets the story in motion.
Zephyr Haddock
Madalyn Gonzalez
Motivation
Initially motivated by fear, her motivation shifts to curiosity after witnessing the pageant and ultimately meeting Toothless, wanting to understand the creatures her parents love.
Character Arc
Zephyr represents the new generation's perspective. Her arc is central to the film's theme, moving from fear and prejudice (gained from Stoick's journals) to wonder and acceptance after a face-to-face encounter with Toothless. Her change of heart is the ultimate measure of the pageant's success.
Gobber the Belch
Craig Ferguson
Motivation
To help Hiccup remind the children of New Berk about the importance of Stoick and the friendship with dragons, and to put on a spectacular (if chaotic) show.
Character Arc
Gobber's role is to provide humor and to help execute Hiccup's plan. He also serves as a keeper of memory, particularly of Stoick, whom he portrays in the pageant. His arc is static but essential for the film's comedic and nostalgic tone.