How Bertha's Pokemon Story Mirrors Women's Struggles & Progress (DPP)
In honor of Women's History Month, we’re diving into the influential roles women have played in the core Pokémon games. From strong Pokemon Trainers to Gym Leaders and Elite Four members, women have helped shape the Pokémon world we know today. Join us as we explore how these female characters were not only shaped by the times they were introduced but also reflected the roles, challenges, and triumphs of women in the real world. It's time for the Elite Four of Pokemon Diamond & Pearl, Bertha!
Elite Four Member Bertha - Pokemon Diamond & Pearl
"Well, well. You're quite the adorable Trainer, but you've also got a spine. Ahaha! I'm Bertha. I have a preference for Ground-type Pokémon. Well, would you show this old lady how much you've learned?"
Bertha, the Ground-type Elite Four Member from Sinnoh, is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and wisdom. Despite not much known about her within Pokemon Diamond & Pearl, her actions, role within the games, and Pokemon gives insight into her approach to Pokemon Battles as well as how she represents women during that time period. So let’s dive into how Bertha’s team mirrors the experiences of women carving their own paths and leaving their lasting marks on society.
Bertha's Quagsire
Elite Four member Bertha connection to Quagsire offers a unique perspective on women’s roles, especially at an older age. During this time, societal expectations for women were shifting, with more emphasis on balancing traditional values with modern aspirations. Quagsire’s Pokédex entries highlight patience, resilience, and an unshakable attitude, which can be interpreted as reflections of women’s evolving roles.
At first, the Pokedex entry makes Quagsire seem foolish, but there’s a hidden strength in not overthinking everything. Quagsire just keeps going. It does not let obstacles slow it down. This symbolizes the importance of persistence despite challenges. As women were increasingly pushing into new career paths, leadership roles, and independent lifestyles, their progress was not always welcomed, and obstacles, both societal and personal, were everywhere. Bertha’s connection to Quagsire suggests a mindset of endurance. Rather than getting discouraged by setbacks, women kept moving forward, much like Quagsire bumping into obstacles but never stopping. Have you ever kept pushing forward, even when people doubted you?
Instead of seeing Quagsire as oblivious, Quagsire should instead be seen as more relaxed confidence. For women in leadership, they have often felt the pressure of perfection. Women have often been expected to be poised, meticulous, and constantly aware of their behavior, whether in the workplace, in relationships, or within family roles. But Quagsire? It just lives its life without worrying about every little thing. Have you ever had to remind yourself not to sweat the small stuff?
Bertha’s partnership with Quagsire is a powerful reminder of embracing a laid-back, self-assured approach to life. It’s a call for women to stop stressing over every misstep or the constant pressure to meet expectations. Sometimes, the best way forward isn’t about having everything figured out—it’s about trusting yourself and continuing on your path. Quagsire, with its calm demeanor, symbolizes the kind of woman who knows when to take a step back and wait, when to push forward, and when to let things slide off her back.
It’s a beautiful representation of strength in all its forms. Strength isn’t always about being tough and unshakeable—it’s about knowing when to stand firm and when to let go. Bertha’s bond with Quagsire shows that confidence doesn’t have to be loud or perfect. Sometimes, the greatest strength is in embracing the flow of life, trusting your instincts, and understanding that not every battle needs to be fought. Wouldn’t life be so much easier if we could just live with that kind of ease and confidence?
Quagsire’s moves in battle aren’t just about strategy. Quaqusire's moveset actually reflect the different ways women navigated challenges, both personal and societal, during a time when things were shifting. If you really look at how Quagsire’s abilities mirror the experiences of many women, you’ll see how they represent the strength, resilience, and adaptability that women had to embrace in order to succeed.
Take Dig, for example. This Ground-type move lets Quagsire burrow underground to avoid danger before striking back. Think about it as a metaphor for how women often had to find clever, strategic ways to navigate a world that wasn’t always welcoming to their ambitions. In male-dominated fields or areas where opportunities seemed limited, women often couldn’t confront barriers head-on without risking immediate rejection. Instead, they took a step back, found alternative routes, and worked behind the scenes to create success. Like Quagsire, who disappears underground to avoid harm and comes back stronger, women quietly pursued education, entrepreneurship, and even activism—growing their influence and achieving their goals despite cultural resistance. Have you ever had to find a way around an obstacle that seemed too big to tackle directly?
Then there’s Double Team. This move boosts Quagsire’s evasiveness by creating multiple illusions of itself, making it harder to hit. Now, think about how women often had to juggle multiple roles in life, whether it was at work, at home, or within social circles. Women learned to be adaptable and versatile, using their ability to manage different aspects of their lives to succeed, even when they were underestimated or overlooked. And just like Double Team, women often relied on each other, forming supportive networks to uplift one another in times of need. It wasn’t just about surviving. It was about thriving together. Have you ever felt like you had to juggle multiple responsibilities and balance different aspects of your life? How did you manage to make it all work?
Finally, there’s Protect, a move that shields Quagsire from damage for a turn. This one really hits home because it represents self-care and the importance of setting boundaries. As women began asserting themselves in more professional and social settings, many found themselves facing backlash for challenging traditional norms. But just like Quagsire using Protect to block attacks, women were learning to protect their energy and well-being, knowing when to stand their ground and when to say “no.” This is especially relevant in a world where women are still fighting for equal opportunities and respect. Setting boundaries, whether in relationships or at work, became a way to ensure that their mental, emotional, and physical health wasn’t sacrificed in the pursuit of progress. Do you remember a time when you had to set a boundary for your own well-being, even though it wasn’t easy?
When you look at Quagsire’s moves this way, it’s clear that they symbolize more than just tactics in battle. They reflect the ways women have had to navigate a world full of challenges, embracing strength, adaptability, and self-care. Whether it’s choosing your battles wisely, finding strength in community, or protecting your own space, these moves show that success isn’t just about power, it’s about knowing when to fight, when to step back, and how to protect what matters most. What moves are you making in your own life to stay strong and keep moving forward?
Bertha's Sudowoodo
Sudowoodo is one of those Pokémon that really gets you thinking when you dive into its story. The more you look at it, the more you realize how much it mirrors the challenges women have faced in asserting their own identity. At first, Sudowoodo seems pretty contradictory. It looks like a tree but is actually a Rock-type Pokémon. That contrast is a perfect metaphor for women who’ve often been expected to fit into certain molds, but who also have an inner strength that defies those expectations. For years, society has expected women to be soft, graceful, and nurturing, kind of like a tree that provides shade. But more and more women have stepped into roles that demand strength, independence, and leadership. They aren’t just "trees" standing still; they are rocks, unyielding and resilient. Have you ever felt like people had a specific idea of who you should be, but deep down, you knew you were something more?
Then there’s Bertha’s choice to train Sudowoodo, which speaks to a different kind of strength. It’s not about always being forceful or direct; it’s about knowing when to stand firm and when to adapt. That’s the kind of wisdom Bertha shows by working with Sudowoodo. The Pokémon isn’t about confrontation. It’s about avoiding danger and adapting when needed. This is something that resonates with many women who’ve had to navigate society’s expectations. For much of history, women were expected to prioritize harmony and avoid direct confrontation, even in the face of inequality. But many women found strength in blending in, working within the system, and finding their own path to success. It wasn’t always about fighting; it was about survival and knowing when to make the right move. Have you ever had to find a way around an obstacle, rather than confronting it head-on?
Bertha’s use of Sudowoodo highlights that not every battle has to be fought with brute force. Sometimes, survival itself is a kind of defiance. By choosing Sudowoodo, Bertha shows that women’s strength is not only about fighting. It’s about endurance, adaptability, and understanding when to pick your battles. Women who had to "flee the rain" weren’t weak. They were strategic, waiting for the right time to move forward and claim their space. Sudowoodo represents the strength in knowing when to be still, when to move, and when to stand strong. It’s about being unyielding when it matters most, but also knowing that sometimes survival is its own kind of victory.
So, when you think about Sudowoodo, think about how it reflects the journey many women have been on by adapting, overcoming, and staying resilient. Have you ever had to adapt to fit into a role that didn’t quite match who you really are? How did you handle it?
Sudowoodo’s story in the Pokédex is all about adaptability, perception, and hidden strength. Bertha’s choice to train Sudowoodo challenges the idea that strength is only about power and aggression. Instead, it shows us that wisdom, resilience, and the ability to navigate expectations are just as important. Women have always been redefining what it means to be strong, showing that they can thrive in any environment, even if they sometimes have to hide their true strength. Just like Sudowoodo, women have had to stand their ground, break free from expectations, and embrace their true selves.
Bertha’s decision to train Sudowoodo speaks to the complex strategies women had to use to assert themselves, especially when stepping into leadership roles while still facing traditional expectations. It wasn’t always about being loud or forceful. Often, it was about using the right moves at the right time. One of Sudowoodo’s key moves, Sucker Punch, a Dark-type move that lets it strike first, but only when the opponent is preparing an attack. This move really reflects the strategic ways women have had to assert themselves in a world that’s often been dominated by men. Speaking out too boldly could invite criticism, while staying quiet meant being overlooked. Sucker Punch symbolizes how women often had to carefully time their actions, waiting for the right moment to make their voices heard. It wasn’t about being aggressive; it was about being precise and knowing when to take control.
Then there’s Hammer Arm, a Fighting-type move that delivers heavy damage but at the cost of the user’s speed. This is a great representation of the strength of women who’ve broken barriers, even if it meant sacrificing something along the way. Women who have pursued leadership roles or challenged the status quo often faced higher expectations and personal sacrifices. Hammer Arm reminds us that progress often requires immense effort. It’s a powerful move, but it doesn’t come without a cost. Have you ever made a big decision that came with sacrifices, but in the end, led to something greater?
By choosing Sudowoodo and using moves like Sucker Punch and Hammer Arm, Bertha embodies the strategic and determined women who have reshaped societies. These moves represent the ways women had to be tactical, resilient, and ready to take action when the moment was right. Like Sudowoodo, many women were underestimated, often mistaken for something weaker than they truly were. But when it mattered, they proved their strength.
Bertha's Golem
Elite Four member Bertha’s connection to Golem really brings out themes of endurance, transformation, and breaking through barriers. It’s a lot like how women have navigated societal expectations while fighting for their independence. When you look at Golem’s Pokédex entry, it reflects some powerful ideas about strength and perseverance, much like the struggles and victories of women pushing beyond the boundaries set by society.
Golem’s entry focuses on momentum, impact, and leaving a lasting mark, much like the way women have been carving out space in a world that wasn’t always welcoming. Women weren’t sitting idly by anymore. They were gaining momentum by taking bold steps forward, and creating opportunities for future generations. Just like Golem’s movement leaves grooves in the mountains, the progress women have made has left an undeniable imprint on society. Their contributions can’t be ignored or erased. Do you ever think about the legacy you’re building? What kind of impact do you want to leave in your own life?
But, there’s a warning too, “Stay clear of these grooves.”
Change wasn’t always easy or smooth. Women who stood up for themselves often faced backlash, skepticism, or even barriers as society struggled to keep up. But even through the resistance, women kept pushing forward, showing that their strength and influence weren’t going anywhere. Bertha’s connection to Golem suggests that she understands this, proving that once movement begins, it’s impossible to stop. Even with all the obstacles, women refused to be broken. They pursued careers, education, and leadership, showing they could endure whatever came their way. Golem’s Pokédex entry is a reminder that strength isn’t about staying stagnant. Women weren’t just surviving, they were evolving, adapting, and finding new ways to take control of their futures. By choosing Golem, Bertha shows that true strength isn’t just about holding your ground, it’s also about knowing when to embrace change and keep growing.
Bertha’s choice to use Golem shows her belief that women’s strength isn’t just about resilience. It’s about transformation, influence, and knowing when to stand firm and when to grow. Like Golem leaving its mark on the mountains, women were leaving their mark on society, history, and the future. How do you want to leave your mark on the world?
Bertha’s Golem moveset is full of meaning, especially when you think about how it mirrors the ways women have asserted themselves throughout history. Take Gyro Ball, for example. It’s a Steel-type move that gets stronger the slower you are compared to your opponent. At first glance, this might sound counterintuitive, but it’s actually a perfect metaphor for women who took their time and didn’t rush into the expectations set for them. The phrase "the slower the user, the greater the damage" symbolize the power that comes from taking your time to carve your own path. Women who didn’t rush into marriage, motherhood, or societal roles were able to make bigger impacts in reshaping those norms.
The “high-speed spin” of Gyro Ball also represents the agility and agency women displayed while navigating societal changes. It’s a reminder of how women could embrace self-expression while staying true to their identities, especially during a time when there was a rise in diverse representations of women. In popular culture, women were balancing strength with approachability, like characters who were both tough and relatable. Gyro Ball, in this sense, shows how women could use their unique strengths—sometimes shaped by the very ways they had to “spin” and meet expectations creatively.
What’s fascinating is how Gyro Ball rewards slowness with power. This mirrors the idea that women’s patience and perseverance led to breakthroughs that weren’t always immediately obvious. Like the move itself, women didn’t need to rush to prove themselves. They could take their time, and when they did, their defiance of the norm had a lasting and powerful impact. Have you ever seen the power in being patient and letting things unfold at their own pace?
Then there’s Brick Break, a Fighting-type move that destroys barriers like Reflect and Light Screen. This one is all about breaking down walls, literally and figuratively. Women, especially in the past, were expected to follow certain rules like be obedient, stay at home, and avoid rocking the boat. But, over time, women challenged these norms by stepping into the workforce, delaying marriage, and taking leadership roles. Brick Break symbolizes how women were smashing through these outdated stereotypes and proving they could be both strong and independent.
Sandstorm is another powerful move that Golem uses. It creates a storm that damages anything not resistant to it over time. This is a perfect representation of how societal change can be subtle at first but eventually builds into something unstoppable. Women were slowly gaining influence in workplaces, politics, and other social spheres. This shift wasn’t immediate, it took patience, persistence, and time. Just like a sandstorm, the impact of their efforts wasn’t always visible right away, but over time, it became undeniable.
The fact that Golem, Quagsire, and Sudowoodo all use Sandstorm is so powerful because it shows how collective effort leads to massive change. These Pokémon represent different generations of women and how they navigated societal expectations:
- Golem represents older generations of women who used their wisdom and experience to make an impact.
- Quagsire is a symbol of women who adapted to shifting societal norms while holding on to their identities.
- Sudowoodo shows women who had to be strategic and sometimes use creative moves to succeed.
Together, these Pokémon remind us that change is never just about one person but instead the collective force of many. Just like a sandstorm, women’s empowerment didn’t happen overnight, but it was a gradual, unstoppable force that reshaped cultural attitudes and opened doors for future generations. How do you see yourself contributing in something bigger than yourself?
Bertha's Whiscash
Bertha’s choice of Whiscash speaks volumes about the evolving roles of women. Whiscash is known for its territorial dominance and its connection to earthquakes, which feels like a perfect metaphor for women asserting their independence during a time when society was pushing back. Much like Whiscash fiercely protects its space, women were claiming their place in the workforce, education, and leadership, even when the road ahead wasn’t always easy.
When you look at Whiscash’s Pokédex entry, it really paints a picture of women fighting for their rightful place in society. For decades, women had to push back against expectations and defend their independence, whether it was in their careers, personal choices, or ambitions. Society often tried to push them back into more traditional roles, but like Whiscash, they were ready to fight for what they had earned. Bertha’s use of Whiscash shows that she values protecting progress and recognizing the work that went into building something strong. The tremors Whiscash causes are like the power of women who refuse to let their progress be erased. Have you ever worked so hard for something that you would do whatever it takes to defend it?
Whiscash’s connection to Bertha reflects wisdom, resilience, and the understanding of what it takes to face adversity. Just like Whiscash shakes the ground to assert its presence, women were making waves in society, ensuring they were no longer overlooked. The moves that Whiscash uses symbolize different ways that women defended their progress, some of which is still seen today!
Take Fissure, for example. It’s a one-hit KO move (OHKO move), instantly taking down an opponent. At first, this might seem unpredictable, but it actually represents the power of creating massive change in an instant. Women fought for gradual progress, but every now and then, a single action or decision would shake the foundation and create a seismic shift. Think about the women who challenged unfair work conditions, demanded equality, or broke into male-dominated fields. They were like Fissure, creating cracks in the old ways and pushing for something new. Have you ever had a moment where a single decision changed the course of your life?
Then there’s Aqua Tail, a Water-type move that balances strength with flexibility. Water has always been a symbol of adaptability, persistence, and quiet yet undeniable power. It’s like how women have been learning to balance traditional roles with modern-day expectations, carving out space for their careers, personal aspirations, and everything in between. Aqua Tail is a perfect metaphor for this. It’s the ability to adapt to change while still holding immense strength and staying true to who you are.
Zen Headbutt is another move that stands out. It combines physical strength with mental clarity, and that really speaks to how women were asserting themselves not just through action, but through intellect, strategy, and emotional intelligence. Women were proving that their strength was not just physical but deeply rooted in resilience and self-confidence. Like Zen Headbutt, women in this era were balancing force with focus, strategically working toward long-term societal change.
Finally, there’s Rock Slide. This move brings down multiple stones at once, hitting several targets. It’s a perfect reflection of the collective power of women working together to make progress. One stone might not cause much damage, but together, they create an unstoppable force. Women were building momentum in the workplace, activism, and social movements, supporting one another to make real, lasting change. Rock Slide is a reminder that women’s empowerment is a collective effort, one that has the power to shift cultural attitudes.
Much like Whiscash, which thrives in water but causes quakes on land, women have been learning to navigate different environments. They balance tradition with progress, family with careers, and patience with action. It’s not always easy, but it’s this ability to adapt and thrive that makes women’s power undeniable.
Bertha's Hippowdon
Bertha’s choice of Hippowdon really speaks to the incredible strength and resilience of women throughout history. Hippowdon is a powerhouse, with raw strength and an unshakable presence, and it’s a perfect reflection of how women were challenging traditional gender roles. Much like Hippowdon, women were balancing strength with grace, and they were doing it with style. Do you think you’ve ever had to balance strength with grace in your own life? How did you manage to keep that balance?
If you look at Hippowdon’s Pokédex entry, it highlights its overwhelming power, which reminds us that women were more than capable of facing challenges head-on. For too long, women had been underestimated and expected to fit into more passive, soft roles. But as more women took leadership positions, they proved that they were just as strong, competent, and capable as men. Bertha’s use of Hippowdon shows that power doesn’t always need to be loud. It can be quiet, steady, and undeniably strong.
Unfortunately, assertive women often face criticism, where similar traits in men are praised as leadership qualities. Hippowdon’s strength and presence show that being assertive isn’t about being aggressive but instead about setting boundaries and commanding respect. Women were no longer staying silent when their rights or ambitions were questioned. They weren’t afraid to push back against societal expectations, and Bertha’s connection to Hippowdon highlights that strength and assertiveness are not weaknesses but are necessary tools for survival and progress. Have you ever had to stand up for yourself or something important to you, even when it wasn’t easy?
Let’s talk about Hippowdon’s moves, because they really reflect the way women were asserting themselves in society. First, there's Stone Edge, the strongest Rock-type move in Pokemon Diamond & Pearl, known for it's power, accuracy, and landing critical hits. This move is a metaphor for the sharp, deliberate actions women took to break through barriers in male-dominated spaces. Women had to be strategic to make a lasting impact. As they entered the workforce and public spheres, their efforts were like a critical hit, rare but transformative. What’s a time in your life when a single action or decision changed everything for you?
Next, we’ve got Crunch, a Dark-type move that may lower an opponent’s defense. For women, Crunch symbolizes refusing to be held back by fear or societal pressure. Women were pushing against outdated traditions and expectations, using their strength to break through the defenses that once held them back. Every action they took weakened those old barriers, making it easier for the women who came after them. Then there’s Curse, which trades speed for increased attack and defense. This move represents the sacrifices women often made to achieve long-term success. Have you ever had to make a sacrifice in your life for something greater? Balancing careers, family, and social expectations was no easy task, but it’s these steady, deliberate actions that led to greater empowerment down the road. Curse is all about patience, persistence, and knowing that every sacrifice made in the present is paving the way for a more empowered future.
Finally, Earthquake is the ultimate symbol of collective strength. It shakes the entire battlefield, making an undeniable impact. Just like women in the workplace, education, and leadership, their growing presence was shaking up cultural norms and pushing for change. Women weren’t just making small ripples but causing seismic shifts in every area of society. Earthquake shows that women’s voices were no longer whispers in the background, but rather a force that could change the world.
Hippowdon, Golem, and Sudowoodo each represent different ways women have made their mark:
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Hippowdon (Persistence and Strength): Women who fought patiently for change, knowing their efforts would benefit future generations.
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Golem (Breaking Barriers): Women who tore down obstacles head-on, like a rolling boulder, carving new paths in society.
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Sudowoodo (Challenging Perceptions): Women who defied expectations, showing that strength and femininity could go hand in hand.
Together, these Pokémon embody women’s strength, adaptability, and resilience. They show how women were shaking up cultural foundations whether through endurance, bold action, or by redefining societal norms. Just like Bertha’s Pokémon, their moves in Earthquake represent how women’s collective voices, actions, and persistence were changing cultural landscapes. Strength isn’t just about brute force but about knowing when to stand firm, when to push back, and when to make the ground tremble. How do you make your presence known in a way that makes a lasting impact?
Bertha represents strength, wisdom, and determination that women have shown throughout history as they’ve fought for equality and independence. Whether it’s through breaking barriers like Stone Edge, defying societal expectations with Crunch, or making sacrifices for long-term change with Curse, Bertha and her Pokemon represent how women have navigated the many challenges they faced and how to navigate a world that often tries to hold them back. Just like Earthquake, the collective force of women’s voices and actions is undeniable, shaking up societal norms and making waves that will be felt for generations to come. Bertha’s Pokémon remind us that true strength isn’t about how loud you are, but instead is about persistence, resilience, and knowing when to make your mark.
Questions:
1) What is your favorite Ground-type Pokemon?
2) In what ways is Bertha similar or different than Agatha from Pokemon RBY?
3) If you could ask Bertha one question, what would it be?
What’s your take on Bertha? Share your thoughts by tagging us on any of our socials!
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