Belle is a fictional character from Disney's animated film, "Beauty and the Beast," released in 1991. She is known for her intelligence, kindness, and love for reading. Belle's character challenges societal norms by valuing inner beauty over outward appearances, which is a central theme of the story. In the film, Belle becomes a prisoner in a castle inhabited by a Beast, who is actually a prince cursed to remain in that form until he learns to love and be loved in return. Through her compassion and bravery, Belle helps the Beast discover his true self, ultimately breaking the curse and finding love.