What happened to Princess Fiona in "Shrek" that changed her from an ogre to a princess by day?
Answer
A Spell Was Cast On Her
A spell was cast on Fiona, causing her to become an ogre at night and return to human form as a princess by day.
In Shrek, Fiona explains that she was placed under an enchantment while still young. The curse makes her transform after sunset, so she spends her nights as an ogre and her days in human form. She believes a kiss from a prince or knight will break the spell, which is why she expects her rescue and marriage to Lord Farquaad to restore her permanently.
The story changes when Fiona falls in love with Shrek. During the wedding scene, Shrek tells her that she is beautiful despite her appearance. Fiona then kisses him, expecting the enchantment to end. Instead, the transformation becomes permanent: she remains an ogre because that is her true form in the film’s interpretation of “true love.”
This is different from the temporary enchantment involving the Fairy Godmother in Shrek 2, which turns Shrek and Fiona beautiful for a limited time. Fiona’s original curse is introduced in the first film and is ultimately resolved through love, self-acceptance, and her choice to remain with Shrek.