Here's why:
* Visual Style: The film's animation, costumes, and overall aesthetic draw heavily from Victorian art and fashion.
* Musical Score: The music features a blend of classical and romantic influences, which were popular during the Victorian era.
* Social Norms: Some aspects of the story, like Ariel's desire for independence and her yearning for the "human world," reflect Victorian ideas about women's roles and societal expectations.
However, it's important to note that The Little Mermaid is a fictional story and doesn't strictly adhere to any historical period. The creators likely blended elements from various eras and cultures to create a unique and magical world.