Character Analysis
(Avoiding Spoilers)
Grew up… in Point Place, Wis., where people aren’t quite used to encountering feminists in the 1970s. Donna may be too idealistic and strong for her surroundings. She resists the restrained, traditional “feminine” role.
Living… with her messed-up parents, Bob and Midge Pinciotti. Donna turned out pretty well considering she was raised in between her parents’ manic marriage. Having nudist parents doesn’t always make for bright, well-adjusted children.
Profession… high school student, for now. Donna has dreams of becoming a writer and newswoman. When her friend Kelso tries to dissuade her from going to college, she tells him, “College is for women who don’t want to marry the first idiot they meet and squeeze out his bastard moron children.”
Interests… promoting the status of women everywhere. Donna dislikes just about everything girly: she doesn’t wear makeup, dresses or skirts. As she once put it, “If women don’t learn to stand up for themselves, men will always control the world.”
Relationship Status… single right now, though she’s always had a crush on her next door neighbor, Eric Forman. “Eric, relax,” she tells him. “We’ve lived next door to each other forever. You could have had me when I was four.”
Challenge… living life as an independent young woman in small-town, 1970s America. Donna’s ambitions go much further than a suburb in Wisconsin, but for now she’s got no choice but to accept her life with her parents.
Personality… strong and stubborn. Donna is easily the most intimidating of all of her friends, whether guys or girls. Her ability to stand up for herself and her ideals is what helps her get through her shaky home life and any other hardships.