Zelda's backstory is great in this game.Zelda character spoilers:
Having unlocked some (but not all) of the memories now, I really like what they're doing with Zelda here. Zero Punctuation described her as an insecure nerd in way over her head, and I don't think that's a completely inaccurate description.
I appreciate that Zelda doesn't really have much in the way of confidence in this game. Nor does she seem to have really accepted the role that has been placed upon her - and it's not without reason either. She plays the part but doesn't own it like previous incarnations, which is interesting to see.
I also like how this in turn affects her dynamic with Link. In a way she's projecting her self-doubt on to him, and that she doesn't seem to be immediately taken with Link is refreshing. Hell, there even seems to be a degree of resentment there - he succeeds while she is struggling.
I dunno, I just find myself sympathising with this Zelda a fair bit. Considering how standard the overall narrative is, I'm happy that they're changing up some of the smaller aspects.
As a character she gains new layers with each memory no matter the order, as they reveal different sides and make you want to understand the progression. The Mt. Lanayru before and after scenes work really well due to the seeds of doubt planted earlier. It's a complex portrayal, even moreso knowing when the moment of truth finally arrives, she fails.