Late Blooming Blossom (Symbol)
Early in the film, Mulan bemoans the fact that she was rejected by the matchmaker. Her father tries to comfort her by pointing out a bud on a nearby tree that has not yet blossomed, and suggests that it will be the most beautiful when it finally does blossom. The blossom is a symbol for Mulan, and the fact that she has not yet come into her own, but that when she does, she will be beautiful.
Retrieving the Arrow (Symbol)
At the beginning of training, Shang shoots an arrow into the top of a nearby post and challenges his soldiers to climb. It is a motley group and no one is able to retrieve the arrow. However, one night, determined to prove herself as a soldier, Mulan manages to climb the pole and retrieve the arrow. This act symbolizes her determination to improve as a soldier and not only blend in with her fellow soldiers, but stand out as especially competent.
Shan Yu's Sword (Symbol)
After Mulan manages to defeat Shan Yu, the Emperor gives her Shan Yu's sword as a symbol of her act. It represents the fact that she is being celebrated as a soldier, not penalized for fighting in the army in disguise.
The Doll (Symbol)
While traveling through China, Shan Yu finds a doll, which signals to him that the Imperial forces are nearby. Here, it symbolizes to the villain that his enemies are near. Later, when Mulan finds the doll, it is in a completely ruined Imperial encampment, and symbolizes the destruction that Shan Yu has brought to the region.
Cri-Kee (Symbol)
Cri-Kee is a lucky cricket that Mulan's grandma gives to her early in the film. It symbolizes the luck that she wants to bestow on her granddaughter. As the film progresses, however, it becomes clear that the cricket is not especially magical or lucky. Nevertheless, Cri-Kee survives many difficult situations and provides companionship to Mulan that helps to bolster her in her mission. Thus, Cri-Kee comes to represent the ways that people can draw on their own strength without having to rely on luck.
