How to Train Your Dragon - Characters & Cast

Initially, his motivation is to prove himself as a worthy Viking by killing a dragon. This quickly shifts to protecting his new friend, Toothless, and then evolves into a desire to bridge the gap between humans and dragons and create a world of peace.

Hiccup begins as an insecure outcast, desperate for the approval of his father and tribe. Through his relationship with Toothless, he discovers his own unique strengths—empathy, intelligence, and courage. He transforms from a boy who wants to kill a dragon into the only one who can save his people by understanding them. He learns to lead not with force, but with compassion, ultimately changing his entire society's way of life and becoming a true hero on his own terms.

Her primary motivation is to be the best warrior and honor her family and tribe. She is driven by a strong sense of duty and tradition. This motivation is later tempered by her loyalty to Hiccup and her newfound understanding of dragons.

Astrid starts as the embodiment of the perfect Viking teen: strong, skilled, and deeply committed to her culture's traditions. She is initially suspicious and resentful of Hiccup's sudden success in dragon training. However, after discovering Toothless, she is forced to confront the truth. Her arc is one of opening her mind and heart, moving from Hiccup's rival to his most loyal supporter and confidante, becoming the first to share his vision for a new world.

His overarching motivation is the protection of his people from the threat of dragons. On a personal level, he is motivated by a deep, if poorly expressed, love for his son and a desire to see him grow into a strong Viking leader.

Stoick is a powerful and respected leader, but a stubborn and uncomprehending father. His arc is about learning the true meaning of strength and leadership. Initially believing he must be hard on Hiccup to prepare him for a harsh world, he ultimately realizes his son's compassion is a greater strength than any weapon. He moves from disowning Hiccup for befriending a dragon to sacrificing himself to save him, finally reconciling with and expressing his profound pride in his son.

Gobber is motivated by his loyalty to Stoick and a genuine affection for Hiccup and the other young trainees. He wants to see them survive and succeed, even if he doesn't always understand Hiccup's methods.

Gobber serves as the village blacksmith and mentor to the young Vikings. He is Stoick's closest friend and often acts as a bridge between him and Hiccup. While he adheres to Viking tradition, he has a more pragmatic and humorous outlook. His arc is less about transformation and more about support; he is one of the first adults to see Hiccup's potential and helps nurture it, providing wisdom and comic relief throughout Hiccup's journey.