Russian Fairy Tales Mid Term

In class examples of Quotes:

- "Cinderella is a child in mourning for her mother" (Warner 206) Having a stepmother that showed opposite of familial love forced mourning on her Death in childbirth was the most common death in women Way for the child to deal with the common absence 80% of man under 60 are married Step-daughter would be a "slave", free labor - "The world of female authority" (Warner 208) In a lot of Fairy Tales, if the story came from a woman, it was fine Why are women given this authority? Men authors try to impersonate the female story or write as a woman themselves False sense of female authority Outside of the tale females did not have any authority Women are the main character Men want to make them lustful, alluding, and outgoing - "Fairy tales like "Cinderella" bear witness against women" (Warner 210) Oppressed and suppressed Women are illicit in procreating these narratives Easy to place blame on editors, collectors, and male narrators of stories for representing women as evil characters Women are complicit Victims Ex: Evil step-mother is evil because that's the only way she can achieve authority Present father who does nothing is less helpful than the absent mother Brothers Grimm Cinderella - Stepmother vs. natural mother (Warner 212): compare the family dynamics in the Brother Grimm's "Cinderella" and "The Golden Slipper" Blood connection Step mother vs mother Step mothers wickedness and neglect is about equal to that of the real mother's This may be worse in the real mother's case due to her blood relation Daughters are also blood related in "The Golden Slipper" and the mother just favors the eldest Step-sisters are degrading to Cinderella while the eldest daughter doesn't really direct wickedness toward her sister Fetish of tiny shoe/ slipper is connected to chinese foot-binding - "In many fairy tales the tyrants are women and they struggle against their often younger rivals to retain the security that their husbands of their fathers afford them" (Warner 217)

Angela Carter, "The Tiger's Bride," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 58-74

- "The Tiger's Bride" by Angela Carter, a tale from "The Bloody Chamber," reimagines "Beauty and the Beast" with a feminist twist. - In this darkly sensual narrative, a young girl is wagered away by her gambler father to the mysterious Beast, a half-man, half-tiger figure residing in a luxurious mansion. - Unlike the traditional story, the Beast respects her agency and offers her a choice to be with him willingly. - Embracing her own power and defying societal norms, the girl willingly transforms into a tiger, symbolizing her liberation and rejection of her father's control. - The story culminates in a fierce confrontation, highlighting themes of agency, self-discovery, and liberation. Themes: - Agency and Liberation: The story emphasizes the protagonist's agency, allowing her to make choices about her identity and relationships. Her transformation into a tiger symbolizes her liberation from societal constraints and patriarchal control, highlighting the importance of self-determination. - Sexuality and Desire: Carter explores the complexities of desire and sexuality, challenging traditional notions. The protagonist's transformation represents her embrace of her own sensuality and power, challenging societal expectations around female sexuality. - Feminism and Power Dynamics: Through the protagonist's journey, the story critiques traditional power dynamics and gender roles. It portrays a strong female character who defies societal norms, illustrating themes of feminism, self-realization, and the reclaiming of one's own strength.

Jack V. Haney, "The Folktale in Russia," pp. 3-22 {C}

- 540 types identified initially - Aarne realizes need for expansion - 2000+ types according to this index - Index is now stagnant (New fairy tales) - Old fairy tales implemented.

Friedrich Schulz, "Rapunzel" (1790), in Zipes Norton ed., pp. 484-489 {C} (German)

- A devoted couple, overcoming family objections, marries, and the wife, desiring an heir, becomes pregnant. - She craves rare rapunzel lettuce from a nearby fairy's garden. - The husband steals some for her, but the fairy catches him, agreeing to spare him if they give their child to her. - They agree, and their daughter, Rapunzel, is born. - Raised in a tower by the fairy, Rapunzel grows up isolated until a prince hears her singing and falls in love. - They plan to escape, but the fairy thwarts them, cutting Rapunzel's hair and punishing them. - After a series of trials, they reunite and live happily in the prince's castle. Themes: - Sacrifice and Love: The narrative highlights the sacrifices made by the husband and Rapunzel's parents out of love. The husband risks his safety for his wife's cravings, and later, Rapunzel's parents willingly give her away to the fairy to fulfill their agreement, showcasing the depths of parental love. - Isolation and Desire for Freedom: Rapunzel's isolation in the tower reflects the theme of longing for freedom and connection. Her desire for the outside world and her love for the prince drive her actions, emphasizing the human need for social interaction and independence. - Redemption and Reconciliation: The story explores themes of redemption and reconciliation. Despite the fairy's initial wrath, she eventually shows mercy, allowing the prince and Rapunzel to reunite. This highlights the transformative power of forgiveness and the possibility of redemption, even after severe mistakes.

"Nature's Way" (Armenian), in Angela Carter's Book of Fairy Tales, pp. 232-235 {C}

- A king isolates his daughter on an island, intending to keep her love only for him. - The curious girl learns about the world from books but feels imprisoned. - Using magic, she creates a man who comes to life. - They fall in love secretly. Discovered, they face death. The girl pleads her case, revealing the truth. - The king rectifies his mistake, building a palace for the couple. Themes: - Isolation and Curiosity: The girl's isolation drives her curiosity about the world, reflecting the natural human desire to explore and learn. Her thirst for knowledge challenges the constraints imposed upon her. - Love and Sacrifice: The girl's love for the man transcends societal norms, leading to sacrifices and risks. Their secret relationship highlights the power of love in overcoming obstacles and defying authority. - Redemption and Forgiveness: The king's realization of his mistake and subsequent efforts to rectify it demonstrate themes of redemption and forgiveness. Acknowledging his error, he takes steps to grant his daughter happiness, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and redemption in relationships.

Márquez, "Sleeping Beauty and the Airplane," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 133-138

- A man at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris notices a beautiful woman in the check-in line for a flight to New York. -He tries to engage her in conversation about love at first sight, but she is uninterested. -The story details his intense observations of her physical appearance and behavior, describing her methodical actions and contemplating her throughout the flight. - He worries about her well-being and closely observes her every move, focusing on her golden skin, unpierced ears, and rosy, healthy nails. - "To your health, Beauty" Themes: - Obsession and Infatuation: The story explores the theme of obsession and infatuation as the narrator becomes intensely fixated on the beauty of the woman at the airport. His detailed observations and constant contemplation reveal his obsessive thoughts and emotions, highlighting the overpowering nature of infatuation. - Superficiality vs. Depth: The narrative delves into the contrast between superficial attraction and deeper connections. The narrator's focus on the woman's physical appearance contrasts with his lack of knowledge about her as a person. This theme raises questions about the nature of attraction and the importance of genuine, meaningful connections beyond mere physical beauty. - Loneliness and Connection: The story hints at themes of loneliness and the longing for connection. The narrator's intense focus on the woman may stem from a desire for companionship and intimacy. However, the story also portrays the isolation that can come from unreciprocated feelings, highlighting the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

Joseph Jacobs, "Jack and the Beanstalk," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 272-277

- A poor widow and her son, Jack, owned a cow named Milky-white, which they relied on for milk. - One day, the cow stopped producing milk, prompting Jack to attempt selling it. - On his way, a strange old man offered him magic beans that could grow into the sky overnight. - Jack's mother, angry, threw the beans out, resulting in a colossal beanstalk sprouting. - Jack climbed it and reached a house inhabited by an ogre and his wife. - Through clever tricks, Jack stole treasures, including a golden hen and a harp. - He eventually cut down the beanstalk, defeating the ogre and marrying a princess. Themes: - Cleverness and Resourcefulness: Jack's ability to outsmart the ogre through quick thinking and resourcefulness showcases the power of wit and intelligence even in dire situations. Clever strategies enable him to navigate challenges and secure treasures. - Risk and Reward: Jack's decision to climb the beanstalk represents the theme of taking risks for potential rewards. Despite the initial danger, his bravery leads to the acquisition of valuable items. This theme explores the balance between risk-taking and the possibility of significant gains. - Transformation and Prosperity: Jack's journey, from poverty to wealth and royalty, highlights the theme of transformation and prosperity. Through his adventures, he undergoes a personal transformation, leading to a change in his social and economic status, ultimately achieving success and happiness.

"Zlatovlaska the Golden-haired: The Story of Yirik and the Snake" (Czechoslovak Folktale), 6 pp. {C}

- An old king gains the ability to understand animal speech by eating a cooked snake. - His cook, Yirik, also acquires this ability but faces suspicion from the king. - To prove his worth, Yirik completes three tasks with the help of animals. - He marries Princess Zlatovlaska but is sentenced to death by the jealous old king. - Zlatovlaska revives Yirik with the Waters of Life and Death. - The old king's attempt fails, leading to his demise. - Yirik becomes king and marries Zlatovlaska, ruling the kingdom harmoniously. Themes: - Animal Assistance and Wisdom: Animals play a crucial role in assisting the protagonist, emphasizing their wisdom and intelligence. Cooperation between humans and animals highlights mutual understanding and teamwork. - Jealousy and Betrayal: The story portrays the destructive consequences of jealousy and betrayal. The old king's jealousy leads to his downfall, highlighting the negative impact of these emotions on relationships and society. - Resilience and Justice: Yirik's resilience and ability to overcome challenges showcase themes of perseverance and justice. Despite facing unfair trials, he triumphs, illustrating the eventual victory of goodness and integrity.

"The Ungrateful Children and the Old Father Who Went to School Again" (Ukrainian Folk tale) {C}

- An old man with children decided to live with his eldest son. - Initially, the eldest son treated him well, but over time, he mistreated the old man. - The old man moved to his second son's house but faced similar mistreatment. - He repeated this with all four sons, but none were willing to support him. - The sons decided to send their father to school to get rid of him. - In the forest on his way to school, the old man met a compassionate nobleman who gave him a casket filled with money. - The old man returned home, and his children treated him well, hoping to inherit the money. - After his death, the children discovered that the casket was filled with glass instead of money. - The people mocked the children for sending their father to school, and they were left with nothing but glass. - Despite their anger and regret, there was nothing they could do as their father was already dead and buried. Themes: - Family Betrayal and Greed: The story highlights the theme of family betrayal as the children mistreat and attempt to get rid of their elderly father, driven by their greed for inheritance. Their actions demonstrate the darker side of human nature, emphasizing the pursuit of personal gain over family bonds and compassion. - Deception and Consequences: Deception plays a significant role in the narrative, both in the children's mistreatment of their father and the false appearance of the casket's contents. The consequences of their actions, coupled with the discovery of the deception, underline the idea that dishonesty and manipulation ultimately lead to undesirable outcomes. - Irony and Poetic Justice: The story's ironic twist, where the children's scheme backfires, showcases the theme of poetic justice. Their attempt to exploit their father's misfortune ironically results in their own downfall. This theme serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the consequences of one's actions and the unpredictable nature of fate.

"Little Sister Fox and the Wolf," in Afanas'ev, pp. 371-375

- Animal tale - Fox deceives wolf and others around him - Fox faces zero repercussions - Fox is a anti-hero - Fox is feminine in Russian - Does the fox represent cunning women or is she just trying to survive?

To Spin a Yarn

- Begins with the unruly rape of young Philomela by King Tereus - Diciton utilized such as, "Raped her, a virgin, all alone, and calling For her father, for her sister, but most often For the great gods. In vain" evokes a melancholy and sympathetic emotion towards a character that was just introduced - Also imagery - Philomela relates the King to a "gray wolf mangling a frightened lamb." - God's intervention to further prevent any cycles of revenge. - The transformation of the King into a Bird of Prey, The Queen into a nightingale, and Philomela into a swallow, all perfectly portray the characters personalities and act as examples for overarching themes present in this story - Tereus is transformed into a bird of prey to symbolize his aggression and willingness to take advantage and mutilate those who are more vulnerable, Procne (Maiden who conveys the story to the queen) is transformed into a nightingale, known for its beautiful melodic song, indicating that she was the one who was able to have a voice to avenge her sisters' rape. Finally, Philomela is transformed into the silent swallow, due to her severed tongue - Analogy between weaving and tale telling, two artistic actions that are very different, yet so similar - Weaving was a universal past-time of women at the time and the utilization of weaving to overcome the physically inflicted severance of Philomela's tongue was very symbolic to what we know as storytelling - Idea that Philomela is the archetype of women who tell tales through creative and alternative methods to gain a voice. Fairytale is symbiotically a female art (Karen E. Rowe, from To Spin a Yarn) Articulating silent matter

"The Swan Maiden" (Scandinavian), in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 79-80

- Boy sees swans landing on a nearby lake - Actually beautiful witches/ maidens who transform back into human form to frolic in the lake - Devises plan to strand/ capture one - Takes her swan skin as she frolics in lake - Comes back to find her skin missing - Boy takers her back to house, marries her, and lives for seven ish years - Presents her swan skin later, she takes advantage, jumps in and flies away Themes: - Deception and Transformation: The story revolves around deception and transformation, depicting how the swans deceive the boy by appearing as beautiful maidens and transform back into swans at will. This theme explores the blurred lines between reality and illusion, emphasizing the transformative nature of appearances. - Captivity and Freedom: The capture of the swan maiden symbolizes captivity, highlighting themes of confinement and restriction. Conversely, her escape when she regains her swan skin represents the pursuit of freedom and the longing for one's true nature. This theme explores the tension between freedom and captivity, reflecting the desire for autonomy and self-discovery. - Trust and Betrayal: Trust is a significant theme, as the boy initially earns the swan maiden's trust but ultimately betrays it by taking her swan skin. This betrayal leads to her escape and highlights the consequences of breaching someone's trust. The narrative explores the complexities of trust, its fragility, and the impact of betrayal on relationships and individuals.

Vladimir Propp, "Folklore and Literature" and "From Morphology of the Folktale," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 498-507

- Classifications are more broad that Aarne/ Thompson - 31 functions - A template like story (hero embarks on a quest to save princess) - Function that character fulfills

"Ivan Tsarevich, the Grey Wolf, and the Firebird," pp. 7-18 {C}

- Comes from a collection in 1898 - Genuinely Russian roots - Illustrations were main asset of this tale - Slavic version of phoenix - Popularity emphasized - Dates back to beyond Afandas - Firebird becomes a symbol of: Russia and Enchantment - Question arises: why don't we talk about the wolf? - Firebird becomes a useful object - Didn't feel alive - Wolf is a steady constant - Identity crisis in Russia - Remarket to provide a spark - Folk lore is cultural anchor - Ballet never performed in Russia - Russian culture is bright, mysterious, fascinating - "Myth for export" - Sadness and grief represented by weeping, one sentence and resolved - Beautiful package of text and pictures - Folktale maybe narrated in the past? - The text is very different - Conversational dialogue - Simple text - More emotions - Characters have names Themes: - Cultural Identity and National Symbolism: The Firebird tale, deeply rooted in Russian folklore, serves as a symbolic representation of Russia and its enchanting cultural heritage. The story delves into questions of national identity and explores the significance of cultural symbols like the Firebird, offering insights into the essence of Russian culture. - Steadfast Tradition Amidst Change: Amidst an identity crisis, the tale highlights the importance of traditional elements, such as the enduring presence of the wolf character. While the Firebird represents change and modernity, the steadfast wolf embodies the constant and unchanging aspects of Russian culture, showcasing the coexistence of tradition and transformation. - Emotional Resonance and Cultural Export: The narrative's emotional depth, expressed through weeping and resolution, adds layers to the story, making it relatable and impactful. Additionally, the tale's adaptation and marketing for a broader audience underscore the concept of folklore as a cultural anchor and highlight the effort to export Russian myths, emphasizing the nation's cultural richness and allure.

"The Sleeping Prince" (Surinamese), in A. Carter's Book of Fairy Tales, pp. 357-359 {C}

- Competition between older women and princess for prince Fixed abrupt happy ending: witch is dead now princess can marry the prince Princess goes on quest to wake up prince (reversal) Goes on quest when she turns 15 (reaches maturity) Tale was told orally which is why it seems choppy Lots of mention of maturity, sex, fertility, and womanhood in general

"Baba Yaga" Nikita Gill, Joy Williams, & S. Forrester.

- Contemporary authors have reimagined Baba Yaga, traditionally seen as a witch, as a symbol of body positivity and empowerment. - In works by Nikita Gill and Joy Williams, Baba Yaga challenges societal norms and advocates for self-love, aging gracefully, and understanding the beauty of all living beings. - Gill portrays Baba Yaga's defiance against conventional beauty standards, promoting the idea that age should not diminish a woman's worth. - Williams sees Baba Yaga as an enlightened figure, shedding light on the importance of valuing the world and its inhabitants. - Both authors emphasize the need for dedication to alter existing societal perspectives, while also redefining the term "witch" to connote a knowledgeable and powerful woman. - Baba Yaga becomes an activist in these contemporary narratives, reshaping the way society views age, beauty, and wisdom. - Baba Yaga takes hold as a Russian superhero - Feminist: her own person no attachment to any males - Her appearance remains constant among all variations Themes: - Body Positivity and Empowerment: Contemporary interpretations of Baba Yaga depict her as a symbol of body positivity, challenging societal beauty standards. She advocates for self-love, aging gracefully, and defies conventional norms, empowering individuals to embrace their bodies and worth regardless of age. - Environmental Awareness and Understanding: In modern retellings, Baba Yaga is portrayed as an advocate for understanding and valuing the beauty of all living creatures and the environment. This theme emphasizes the importance of environmental consciousness and appreciating the world and its inhabitants, urging readers to be mindful of their impact on the environment and other species.

Jack Zipes, "Fairy-Tale Discourse: Towards a Social History of the Genre," 1-11 {C}

- Critics and scholars have failed to study Fairy-Tales historical development as a genre - Discussion of Fairy-Tales in histories of children's literature, essays, and even books on the fairy tale for adults, but no social history (gap) - Fairy-tales for children are universal, ageless, therapeutic, miraculous, and beautiful Mysterious past - Patriarchism - Female focused Fairy Tales must focus on male significance first Zipes argues that perspective of speech is important - Elite in charge - Upperclass has more censored version vs poor who have realistic cultural norms and issues of life - Power and oppression - Main Takeaway: Social expression - Classical, not ageless, not the best therapy for children - Crafted to fit the audience, or it may not be accepted - Zipes - Cultural production - Gender and Class - Larger historical scope - Readers are involuntary collaborators with a political elite - Marxist esc. - Feminist approach - Gender bias, cultures, misogynistic, projection of women as self-deprecating and beauty/ self-oriented - Fashioning gender roles in society - According to Zipes fairy tales... - Challenges conventional wisdom

Hans Christian Andersen, "The Little Mermaid," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 283-300

- Descriptive of ocean (Color) - Emphasis on 6 (Oysters and grandchildren) - 7 in Disney representing the Seven Seas - Continued description of youngest grandchild/ character development - Character traits and personality - Lack of jealousy/ resentment - Sisters and Little Mermaid were supportive of each other - Statue of a Beautiful boy - Immortal soul (Religion over Prince) - No happily ever after in terms of love: gains a soul by joining the Winds - Themes: - Nature's Beauty and Serenity: The ocean is vividly described, emphasizing its various colors and capturing its mesmerizing allure. This theme explores the ocean's aesthetic appeal, symbolizing both its enchanting beauty and the vastness of the natural world. - Numerical Significance and Symbolism: The recurring theme of the number six, represented by the oysters and grandchildren, suggests a sense of completion and harmony. In Disney's representation, the Seven Seas further explores the significance of numbers, possibly indicating unity and diversity within the world's realms. - Character Growth and Emotional Resilience: The focus on the youngest grandchild allows for significant character development. Traits and personality are highlighted, demonstrating the protagonist's resilience, lack of jealousy, and supportive nature. The absence of a traditional "happily ever after" love story emphasizes personal growth and fulfillment through the acquisition of an immortal soul, aligning with religious overtones.

Antti Aarne and Stith Thompson, from The Types of the Folktale: A Classification and Bibliography, pp. 373-378 {C}

- Elements of the plot - Plot sequence - The more universality, the better - Tying fairy tales back to their core plot (A,B,C,D diversions)

Fairy Tale Overview (In class Oct. 5)

- Fairy Tales are minimally counterintuitive - Easy to comprehend - Strange but not too strange - Family - Complex family arrangements - Framework to examine the human condition - Quest Slay a dragon - Major transition - Theme of maturation dominant - Why some consider it disconcerting to lack love or romance - Emphasis on process of getting onto new stage of life - Genre conventions - Characters - Simple and direct - Do not express feelings - Weep - Not psychologically complex - Questionable or unclear motivation - Overriding desire - Stereotypes - Wicked stepmother, jealous siblings - Good or bad - Black and white - Can be disappointing du to the lack of three dimensionality - Physical appearance defines a character - Beautiful = good - Plot is predictable, schematic, and driven in a certain direction - Numbers consistent - 3 sisters - Happy ending - Necessary - Struggle to achieve autonomy - Moving force of narrative - Anxiety to meet parents expectations - Simple style - Formulate repetitions - Reflect oral origins - Economist style - Concise delivery - Contaminated fairy tales - Yada yada yada. Continuous - Third person - A journey through a dark forest or on top of the mountain - Magical spells, talking animals, tricksters, foolish - Rewarding in that the reader must supplement the texts - Many Fairy Tales have shared cultural elements - Universal and structural approach is useful - Lutte, Propp, Thompson - Socio Historical approach - Zippes - Allows us to see that there is alot of difference in the way in which Fairy Tales are presented - Multiple revisions of the text to streamline the tales for children - French salons vs Brother's Grimm - Feminist approach - Audience - Not originally for children - Arabian Nights for merchants - German approach made fairy tales suitable for children with focus on romance and happily ever after - Walt Disney reinforced - Inviting genre - Participatory - Everyone can contribute -Magical-Happy ending (marriage). -Subclass of folklore. Marrigal presented as matter of fact

Lüthi, "Sleeping Beauty: The Meaning and Form of Fairy Tales," pp. 21-34 {C}

- Fairy tales are a "a universe in miniature" - Simplifies morals in life - More broad - Highlights both the good and bad characteristics of mankind - Similar to Bettelheim? - Storytellers are the "god" of the fairy tale - Reflection of nature (change of seasons) - Everyday life is in miniature since we aren't exposed to the entire universe - form : fairy tales shed light on universal issues in a brief space - Believes that fairy tales do not focus on individual people!!! - Luthi analyzes the language of different fairy tales - Meaning can be find in the language of the tale and mode of the narrative - Connotation is very important - Forced interpretations - Critics try to find meaning in everything - Overinterpretation of fairy tales - Details can be ornamental

Marcia R. Lieberman, "Some Day My Prince Will Come": Female Acculturation through the Fairy Tale," pp. 383-395 {C}

- Fairy tales have an impact on how women perceive themselves -Marcia R. Lieberman's Insights: - Popular fairy tales significantly influence children's cultural upbringing, replacing traditional mythic figures - Talks about how beauty in fairy tales is equated to goodness - Passivity of women : if you happen to be beautiful you don't need to do anything just wait for prince - Acculrations - Passionate when discussing Beauty Contest - System of rewards: whoever is beautiful vets the reward - Weighs these three factors: - Beautiful - Rich - Waiting to be rescued - Glamorous suffering/ victims - Powerful women - Not only ugly but they are asexual - Otherowordly, not regular - "Being powerful is mainly associated with being unwomanly." Yes it is outdated - Making remakes to avoid making progress - Liberman could be biased - Easy to find examples that back your viewpoint - Flower pot theory - If you replaced a main female character with a flower pot... does it change? - Object of love/ interest can easily be replaced - Statue is still a flower pot, no reciprocation Themes: - Impact of Fairy Tales on Self-Perception: The theme explores how popular fairy tales shape the way women perceive themselves. Traditional fairy tales often equate beauty with goodness and depict women as passive individuals waiting to be rescued. This theme delves into the cultural impact of these narratives on the self-image and expectations of women, highlighting the influence of fairy tales on societal norms and gender roles. - Representation and Empowerment: The theme addresses the portrayal of women in fairy tales, emphasizing the contrast between passive, victimized characters and powerful, independent women. It critiques the traditional depiction of powerful women as otherworldly and asexual, challenging the stereotype that associates femininity with weakness. This theme explores the need for diverse and empowering representations of women in narratives, advocating for the recognition of women's agency and strength. - Critique of Traditional Narratives: The theme involves a critical examination of traditional fairy tales, highlighting their outdated and often limiting portrayal of women. It questions the perpetuation of stereotypical ro

Class Notes Oct. 9

- Firstborn inherited everything - "Prince or princess" - Third would be sent to serve in the army - Middle child most relaxed according to adler (Austrian psychologist) - Two third borns produce the best offspring - More flexible and accommodating - More than half of US presidents are first born - Birth mortality rates intensely decreased - 20% in 1915 - Emphasis on 3 - Structuralist approach by Propp - Reader is more likely to remember information in patterns of three - Twice is coincidence, but three times is a pattern - Prohibition - Quest - Consent - Magical Object - Forced Transformation

Ballets Russes, Schéhérazade (choreographic drama in one act)

- From the Frame Tale - Wife and the Slave Dancing (Zibata and Golden Slave) - Produced in 1910 in Paris by Ballets Russes - Influenced fashion in Western Europe - Orientalism/ Russian tradition - Gives perspective that the wife may love the king, adverse to the other perspective we see - She is the heroine of the story - ALL DEPENDS ON HOW THE STORY IS TOLD (perspective) - Producer emphasized the decor, costumes, and lavish - Liberates womens who own their desire and slaves who are free - Agents of their lives, rewriting dynamic in Arabian Nights

"The Sealskin" (Iceland), 1 pp. {C}

- Girl "loses" her sealskin and has to remain human - Marries the guy who stole her skin and has 7 children - Lives on land, but eventually makes her way back to the ocean after finding the key of the trunk with her sealskin - Has a family in the water as well- 7 children - Still helped peasant husband with fishing and swims along shore next to land children Themes: - Identity and Sacrifice: The story explores themes of identity and sacrifice as the girl loses her sealskin, a symbol of her true self and connection to the ocean. This loss forces her to adapt to a human life, making sacrifices for the sake of her family on land. It raises questions about the sacrifices individuals make in relationships and the struggle to maintain a sense of self while fulfilling societal roles. - Dual Existence and Belonging: The narrative delves into the theme of dual existence and the longing for belonging. The girl lives both in the human world and the ocean, trying to find her place in both realms. This duality highlights the complexity of identity and the constant search for a sense of home and belonging, even in multiple worlds. - Resilience and Balance: The girl's ability to navigate between two worlds showcases themes of resilience and balance. Despite the challenges she faces, she manages to maintain connections with her family on land and her oceanic origins. This theme emphasizes the importance of adapting to change, finding balance in different aspects of life, and embracing resilience in the face of adversity.

"The Sweetest and the Most Bitter" and "How the Tongue can Wound," Georgian tales in A Book of Wisdom and Lies, pp. 16-17; 30 {C file Book of Wisdom}, "Tongue Meat" (Swahili), in Angela Carter's Book of Fairy Tales, pp. 223-24 {C}

- Importance of one's words - Georgian and Swahili tales showcase the deep-rooted meaning behind modern phrases such as "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will break my heart", "pick your words wisely", and "​​a tongue has no bones but it can break a heart" - From a young age we are taught to be careful with our words because once they are said, they can be only forgiven, not forgotten - It's fascinating to see tales focusing on this simple, yet complex theme and moral standard - The Kings in both stories are initially unaware and perplexed by the reference to the tongue -If these strong, powerful men are unable to grasp such a "basic concept", it must imply that everyone can benefit from the thematic concept highlighted by the storytellers - Oftentimes tales don't have a clear lesson or message they are trying to get across, but these tales have a very concrete viewpoint that they hope to instill in their readers/listeners. - Additionally, in Tongue Meat the King never said hurtful things to his wife, but he still was unable to provide her happiness - As important as it is to be mindful of our words, it is just as important to facilitate conversation and prioritize interaction with friends, family, and peers - This piece truly demonstrates the power of communication and how individuals can use their words, knowledge, and experiences to bring happiness to surrounding people

Marina Warner, "Absent Mothers: Cinderella," pp. 201-217 {C}

- In "Absent Mothers: Cinderella," Marina Warner explores the theme of absent mothers in the Cinderella fairy tale. - Warner delves into the significance of Cinderella's mother's absence in the narrative and how it shapes the character's identity and the overall message of the story. - She discusses how Cinderella's lack of a mother figure makes her vulnerable and isolated, subject to the cruelty of her stepmother and stepsisters. - Warner also examines the cultural and psychological implications of this absent mother figure, drawing on various interpretations of the Cinderella story throughout history and across different cultures. - She highlights how the absence of a nurturing mother figure can symbolize societal and familial issues and explores the role of fairy godmothers as surrogate maternal figures in the story. - Additionally, Warner likely touches on the idea that Cinderella's journey towards self-realization and transformation is closely tied to her longing for a maternal presence. - This absence ultimately becomes a central theme in the Cinderella narrative, influencing the character's development and her ultimate triumph over adversity. Themes: - Maternal Absence and Vulnerability: The absence of Cinderella's mother in the narrative leaves her vulnerable and isolated, subjected to mistreatment by her stepmother and stepsisters. This theme explores the emotional and psychological impact of lacking a nurturing mother figure, highlighting Cinderella's challenges in the absence of maternal guidance and support. - Symbolism of Absent Mothers: Warner delves into the symbolic significance of the absent mother figure in Cinderella stories. This absence is interpreted as a representation of broader societal and familial issues. The theme explores how the missing maternal presence reflects deeper cultural anxieties and familial dysfunctions, shaping the character's identity and experiences in the story. - Transformation and Self-Realization: Cinderella's journey towards self-realization and transformation is closely linked to her longing for a maternal presence. The theme explores how the absence of her mother becomes a driving force in Cinderella's personal growth. Her triumph over adversity is not

"The Golden Slipper," in Afanas'ev, pp. 44-46

- In "The Golden Slipper," an old man had two daughters. - The younger one was mistreated by her mother but was aided by a magical fish in a well. - When the prince declared he would marry the owner of a golden slipper, the younger daughter tried it on and it fit perfectly. - They got married and lived happily ever after. - The story concludes with a humorous anecdote about the narrator receiving gifts but misunderstanding the raven's advice Themes: - Injustice and Triumph of Goodness: The story of "The Golden Slipper" highlights the theme of injustice, particularly the mistreatment of the younger daughter by her mother. Despite her hardships, her kindness and purity triumph in the end. When the prince searches for the owner of the golden slipper, her goodness is rewarded, showcasing the victory of kindness over cruelty. - Deception and Recognition: Deception plays a significant role in the story, as the younger daughter disguises herself during the prince's search for his bride. However, her true identity is eventually recognized, emphasizing the theme of truth prevailing over deception. This theme underscores the idea that genuine character cannot be concealed forever. - Magical Intervention and Fate: The presence of the magical fish in the well and the golden slipper itself symbolize the intervention of fate and magic in the characters' lives. These magical elements guide the story's events, leading to the ultimate union of the prince and the rightful owner of the slipper. This theme explores the idea that destiny and magical forces often shape the outcomes of human lives.

Sara Maitland, "The Wicked Stepmother's Lament," from A Book of Spells (1987), pp. 75-79 {C}

- In "The Wicked Stepmother's Lament" by Sara Maitland, the stepmother's perspective in the Cinderella tale is deeply explored. Written in the first person, the narrative shifts from the traditional Cinderella story to the stepmother's personal reflections. - She expresses frustration with Cinderella's passivity, desiring her to be more assertive for survival. - Despite resorting to cruelty, the stepmother's attempts to shape Cinderella's character are futile. - Cinderella continues to forgive her, highlighting the complexities of their relationship. Themes: - Frustration and Unfulfilled Expectations: The stepmother's frustration arises from her desire for Cinderella to be assertive and self-reliant, contrasting with Cinderella's passivity. This theme explores the tension between expectations and reality. - Complexity of Human Relationships: The article delves into the intricate dynamics between the stepmother and Cinderella. Despite the stepmother's cruelty, Cinderella's forgiveness showcases the complexity of human emotions and relationships, highlighting the depth of their interactions. - The Ineffectiveness of Control: The stepmother's attempts to shape Cinderella's character through manipulation and cruelty prove ineffective. This theme underscores the limitations of trying to control and mold someone's personality, emphasizing the complexity of human nature and individuality.

Thursday, September 14. Sleeping Beauty

- In Perrault's "The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood," a princess is cursed by an elderly fairy to die after pricking her finger on a spindle. - Despite the curse, a prince finds her and awakens her without a kiss. - They marry and have children. When the prince goes to war, the queen, who is secretly an ogress, tries to harm the children. - With clever tricks, the steward saves them. The ogress meets her demise in a vat of vipers. - The tale underscores the enduring power of true love and portrays the patience of women. Themes: - The Power of True Love: "The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood" explores the enduring and transformative power of true love. The princess and the prince's love for each other breaks the curse and brings them together, emphasizing the theme of love's ability to conquer obstacles. The Patience and - Strength of Women: The story highlights the patience and strength of women, particularly the princess, who patiently waits for the prince to awaken her. It also contrasts the cunning and strength of the steward, who protects the princess's children from the ogress, showcasing the resourcefulness of women in challenging situations. - Deception and Trickery: The tale features themes of deception and trickery, as characters employ clever strategies to outwit the malevolent ogress. The steward's cunning tactics, including hiding the children and tricking the ogress, demonstrate the power of wit and intelligence in overcoming threats and protecting loved ones.

"The Maiden Tsar," in Afanas'ev, pp. 229-234"

- In a certain kingdom, a merchant's wife dies, leaving him with a son named Ivan. -Ivan is continuously put to sleep with a pin by a maiden who wants to keep him for herself on a ship. - Ivan kills his tutor, travels to a distant kingdom, and meets Baba Yaga. With the help of a firebird, he escapes Baba Yaga's threats. - He learns the Maiden Tsar has fallen out of love with him and has been transformed into an egg hidden inside an oak. - He meets an old woman who bakes the egg, the Maiden eats it, and the two reunite, leading to their marriage and prosperity. Themes: - Betrayal and Redemption: The story of "The Maiden Tsar" explores themes of betrayal and redemption. Ivan's tutor betrays him, leading to a series of challenges and adventures. Through his courage and determination, Ivan overcomes these obstacles, eventually winning back the love of the Maiden Tsar. His journey showcases the theme of redemption and the possibility of making amends for past mistakes. - The Power of Love and Sacrifice: Love is a central theme in the story, driving the actions of both Ivan and the Maiden Tsar. Ivan's love for the Maiden Tsar motivates him to embark on a perilous journey and face formidable foes. The Maiden Tsar's sacrifice, consuming the baked egg to restore her love for Ivan, highlights the transformative power of love and the willingness to make personal sacrifices for the sake of love. - Perseverance and Resourcefulness: Ivan's journey is marked by his perseverance and resourcefulness. Despite the challenges he faces, he uses his wit and determination to navigate dangerous situations, outsmart adversaries, and ultimately reunite with the Maiden Tsar. The story emphasizes the importance of resilience, cleverness, and determination in overcoming adversity and achieving one's goals.

"The Frog Princess," "The Snotty Goat," "The Feather of Finist, the Bright Falcon," in Afanas'ev, pp. 119-23, 200-202, 580-588

- In a distant kingdom, the king decrees that his children must shoot arrows, and whoever brings an arrow back will be their spouse. - The youngest prince, Ivan, has his arrow retrieved by a frog from a marsh. - Unwillingly, he marries the frog. Later, he encounters an old woman who advises him on how to transform his frog-wife into a human form. - Following her instructions, Ivan and the transformed Elena fly back to Russia on a magic carpet. - They live happily and prosperously. Themes: - Appearances Can Be Deceptive: The story challenges the notion of appearances, highlighting how the frog, an unlikely creature, becomes Ivan's true love once transformed. It emphasizes the idea that genuine love goes beyond physical appearances, underscoring the importance of inner qualities. - Persistence and Dedication: Ivan's dedication to fulfilling the tasks given by the old woman demonstrates themes of persistence and commitment. His determination to transform his frog-wife and make their relationship work showcases the power of perseverance in the face of challenges. - Love Transcends Barriers: Despite the unconventional beginning of their relationship, Ivan and Elena's love story transcends societal norms and physical differences. The tale conveys the message that love knows no boundaries, emphasizing the strength of love to overcome obstacles and unite individuals from different backgrounds.

"Baba Yaga and the Brave Youth,"

- In a distant time, a brave youth encounters Baba Yaga, a fearsome witch. - He is warned by a cat and a sparrow to remain silent if Baba Yaga comes to count spoons. - Despite agreeing, he cries out when she tries to touch his spoon, leading to his capture. - The cat and sparrow rescue him twice, but on the third attempt, he is taken to Baba Yaga's home. - There, he cleverly tricks Baba Yaga's daughters into being roasted in his place. - Eventually, he outsmarts Baba Yaga herself, roasting her and escaping. - He returns home triumphant to his brothers, having bested the witch. Themes: - The importance of cleverness and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges -The use of deception and trickery to outwit adversaries - The ultimate triumph of goodness and justice over evil, highlighting the power of good intentions and intelligence in prevailing against malevolence and injustice.

Brothers Grimm, "The Frog King, or Iron Heinrich," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 55-58

- In a kingdom long ago, a princess loses her golden ball in a well and is helped by a frog. - In exchange for retrieving her ball, the frog demands companionship. - Reluctantly, she agrees but later breaks her promise. - When the frog appears at the castle, she is forced to fulfill her word by the king. - As she carries the frog to her room, she becomes furious and throws him against the wall. - To her surprise, he transforms into a prince. - They plan to marry, and the prince's servant, Heinrich, who had put hoops around his heart to prevent sadness, hears the breaking hoops, thinking it's the coach, but it's actually his heart. Themes: - Fulfillment of Promises: The story highlights the importance of keeping promises, even when they seem inconvenient. The princess's initial reluctance and subsequent fulfillment of her promise to the frog underline the theme of honor and commitment. - Transformation and Acceptance: The frog's transformation into a prince symbolizes inner beauty and the importance of seeing beyond external appearances. It promotes the idea that true worth lies beneath the surface, emphasizing acceptance and love beyond physical attributes. - Loyalty and Devotion: Heinrich's loyalty to the prince, demonstrated by his willingness to prevent his heart from breaking, showcases themes of devotion and unwavering commitment. His sacrifice emphasizes the profound bond between master and servant, portraying loyalty as a noble and enduring quality.

"Baba Yaga,"

- In a nameless origin, a peasant had a daughter. - After his wife's death, he remarried, and his new wife bore a daughter. - The stepmother mistreated the peasant's daughter. - The peasant sent his daughter into the woods to face Baba Yaga, a witch. - With the help of mice, she completed tasks given by Baba Yaga. - However, when her stepmother intervened, the girl's tasks became impossible - Baba Yaga, furious, broke the girl into pieces - The stepfather brought back her bones, leading to a sorrowful ending. - The story's details, including the stepsister's prosperity and the peasant's attempts to explain the situation, are obscured, suggesting a lack of clarity in the narrative.

Brothers Grimm, "Cinderella," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 148-153

- In a tale of hardship and transformation, Cinderella, once a beloved daughter, faces cruelty after her mother's death. - Her wicked stepmother reduces her to a kitchen maid, earning her the nickname "Cinderella." - Despite her mistreatment, with the help of magical birds, she attends a royal festival in disguise. - When the prince falls for her, her step-sisters resort to mutilation to fit into the golden shoe. - However, the birds expose their deceit, and Cinderella is recognized as the true bride. - Justice prevails as her step-sisters are punished, leaving Cinderella to embrace her newfound happiness. Themes: - Resilience and Kindness Triumph Over Cruelty: "Cinderella" illustrates the enduring power of kindness and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite her harsh circumstances, Cinderella maintains her gentle nature and inner strength. Through her unwavering kindness, she prevails over cruelty and ultimately finds happiness. - The Transformative Power of Magic and Hope: Magic, represented by the enchanted hazel tree and the helpful birds, symbolizes the power of hope and transformation. Even in the bleakest situations, the possibility of change and the belief in something better can lead to magical transformations, allowing individuals to escape their hardships. - Justice and Consequences: The tale explores the theme of justice and consequences for one's actions. Cinderella's step-sisters face punishment for their deceitful and malicious behavior. Their attempts to deceive and harm others lead to their downfall, emphasizing the moral lesson that dishonesty and cruelty ultimately result in retribution.

"The Wise Maiden and the Seven Robbers"

- In a village, a peasant with two sons dies, leaving his wealth to the eldest son, while the younger son struggles with poverty. - The younger son's neighbors trick him into taking a loan, which he loses to a raven. - The son overhears boys playing a mock court case and learns about extending loans. - While chopping wood, he discovers stolen treasures hidden by robbers. - He invites his rich brother, but greed leads to the rich brother's death. - The son cleverly defeats the robbers, marries his adopted daughter to his son, and outsmarts the robbers multiple times. - With his daughter's wisdom, he prospers in trade, repays his neighbors, and lives a happy life. Themes: - Deception and Greed: The story explores themes of deception, greed, and betrayal, highlighting how individuals are often motivated by selfish desires, leading to their downfall. - Wisdom and Resourcefulness: The protagonist's daughter showcases wisdom and resourcefulness, enabling the family to outsmart the robbers and overcome challenges. Her intelligence becomes a crucial factor in their success. - Justice and Prosperity: Ultimately, the story emphasizes justice prevailing over deception and the rewards of integrity and cleverness, leading to prosperity and a fulfilling life for the protagonist and his family.

"Shemiaka the Judge," "The Wise Maiden and the Seven Robbers," in Afanas'ev, pp. 625-627, 134-40

- In a village, a rich and a poor brother have a dispute over a horse. The poor brother borrows the horse but it loses its tail in an accident. - The rich brother takes the case to Shemiaka the Judge, hoping for a favorable ruling. - The rich brother stays with a rich peasant who is hospitable to him but mistreats the poor brother. - Poor brother also kills merchants baby and the sick father who all go to the judge. - Shemiaka's judgments become increasingly severe. - First, he orders the rich brother to lend the horse until its tail grows back. - When the rich brother considers bribery, Shemiaka mistakes a bag of rocks for rubles. - Next, he demands the rich peasant's wife and child be given to the poor man until they have a child, and then the child be taken from them. - Finally, Shemiaka orders the poor man to be crushed by the son of the sick man. - The poor brother, the peasant, and the sick man's son all agree to pay hefty sums to avoid the judgments. - The poor brother receives bribes and allows them all to settle, bringing peace to the village. Themes: - Corruption and Bribery: The story highlights the corruption in the legal system, where Shemiaka the Judge accepts bribes and makes unjust rulings, emphasizing the prevalence of corruption in society. - Injustice and Exploitation: The tale illustrates the exploitation of the poor and vulnerable by the rich and powerful. social injustice. - Resolution through Compromise: Despite the unfair judgments, the story shows conflicts being resolved through negotiation and financial settlements, reflecting a pragmatic approach to resolving disputes in the absence of true justice.

Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont, "Beauty and the Beast," in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 39-50

- In a wealthy merchant's family, Beauty, the youngest daughter, stood out for her kind and down-to-earth nature. - When the family lost their fortune, her prideful elder sisters fell from grace, while Beauty embraced a humble life, caring for her father and brothers. - After a fateful encounter with the Beast, she agreed to stay with him, believing her sacrifice would save her family. - In the enchanted castle, she discovered the Beast's kindness, and despite his appearance, they formed a deep connection. - Over time, Beauty's love transformed the Beast into a prince, breaking an evil fairy's spell. They married and lived happily ever after. Themes: - Inner Beauty and Kindness: Beauty's inner beauty and kind nature are emphasized throughout the story, illustrating the theme that true beauty comes from within. Her compassion, humility, and love ultimately transform the Beast and lead to their happiness. - Sacrifice and Love: Beauty's willingness to sacrifice herself for her family and her capacity to love beyond appearances are central themes. Her selfless love for her father and her acceptance of the Beast despite his frightening exterior highlight the transformative power of love. - Redemption and Transformation: The Beast's transformation into a prince represents the theme of redemption and the idea that kindness and love can redeem even the most cursed souls. His redemption and Beauty's love lead to the fulfillment of their destinies and the breaking of the curse.

"Parsley-Girl" (Italian), in Angela Carter's Book of Fairy Tales, pp. 90-92 {C} (Parlsye used for abortions/ emphasis on high mortality rate)

- In a wintery setting, a woman craves parsley from the Holy Sisters' garden and sneaks in to get some. - She's caught and forced to name her baby Parsley-girl, whom the nuns take away. - When Parsley-girl realizes she's to be eaten, a man in a casserole pot advises her to use a magic wand to turn the witches into frogs, saving herself. - Later, they marry and escape the nuns' wrath, using the wand to reveal the witches' true nature. Themes: - Deception and Transformation: The story highlights the deceptive nature of appearances, with characters hiding their true identities and intentions. Transformation, both physical and metaphorical, plays a significant role in the narrative. - Independence and Resourcefulness: Parsley-girl's cleverness and resourcefulness enable her to escape danger. She doesn't passively accept her fate but actively seeks ways to change her circumstances, demonstrating resilience and independence. - The Power of Magic: Magic is portrayed as a tool that can protect, transform, and reveal the truth. It becomes a symbol of agency, giving characters the ability to shape their destiny and challenge oppressive forces.

"The Good Ferryman and the Water Nymphs" (Polish folktale), 9 pp. {C }

- In the tale, an old man and his three sons lose their ferry boat in a storm, but a passing stranger gifts them a magical purse. - The youngest son, kind-hearted and generous, uses the purse's gold to help the poor. - His greedy older brothers steal the purse, leading to their tragic demise. - The youngest son, aided by magical items, wins a Self-playing Guitar for the king, uncovering the truth about the king's evil ways. - The ferry-man becomes king, his wife's sea-maiden sister returns to the sea, and they rule benevolently, using their magical items for the kingdom's welfare. Themes: - Generosity and Greed: The tale explores the contrast between generosity and greed. The youngest brother's kindness contrasts sharply with the avarice of his older siblings, showcasing the consequences of one's actions and the rewards of selflessness. - Justice and Truth: Justice prevails in the story, as the deceitful actions of the older brothers are exposed. The narrative emphasizes the importance of truth, honesty, and integrity, suggesting that lies and greed lead to downfall while honesty and virtue are rewarded. - Transformation and Redemption: The story depicts characters' transformation and redemption. The youngest brother's compassionate nature leads to his transformation into a benevolent king. Even the sea-maiden's sister finds redemption through her marriage, highlighting the theme of redemption and the potential for positive change in individuals.

Edgar Allan Poe, "The Thousand-and-Second Tale of Scheherazade" (1850), pp. 2-25 {C}

- In this tale, a jealous monarch, determined to prevent any woman from surpassing his late queen's beauty, vows to marry and kill beautiful maidens - Scheherazade, daughter of a grand vizier, devises a plan to save the maidens. She marries the king and starts telling him captivating stories, pausing each night, leaving the king eager for the next installment - She spins tales of Sinbad the Sailor's adventures and fantastical lands, embellishing them to absurdity - The king, entranced, requests more stories, but Scheherazade's exaggerations eventually lead to her demise. Through this narrative, - Poe satirizes the power of storytelling, blurring the line between reality and fiction - Highlights the theme of estrangement: between the fantastical tales and the truth.

"The Bun," in Afanas'ev, pp. 447-449

- In this tale, an old man asks his wife to make him a bun, but they lack flour. - She scrapes together ingredients, and the bun rolls away. - Along the way, it encounters a series of animals: a hare, a wolf, a bear, and a fox. - Each time, the bun sings a song about its origins, successfully avoiding being eaten until it meets the cunning fox. - The fox tricks the bun and ultimately devours it. Themes: - Cleverness and Deception: The tale highlights the theme of cleverness and deception. The bun outwits the hare, wolf, and bear through wit and quick thinking. However, it falls victim to the fox's cunning, illustrating the power of deception even against clever adversaries. - Nature of Predators: The story portrays various predators in nature, each trying to catch and consume the bun. It reflects the natural order of predator-prey relationships and the survival instincts involved in the animal kingdom. - Overconfidence and Humility: The bun's downfall comes when it underestimates the fox and becomes overconfident in its ability to escape. This theme underscores the importance of humility and the consequences of underestimating potential threats.

"How a Husband Weaned His Wife from Fairy Tales," in Afanas'ev, p. 308

- Innkeepers whose wives loved fairy tales - Yearned to wean his wife away from this love - The old man appears out of the cold - Let in due to his claim that he is a great storyteller - The wife can interrupt and the old man will tell stories all night - Continuously telling the same stories over and over - The wife interrupts and says that the story is repetitive - Husband thrashed and punished her

Thompson, "Universality of the folktale" and "Forms of the Folktale," p. 3-10 {C}

- Interest in the circulation of folktales - The transition from oral to written - Changes in each transcription - Folktales have a universal component as they have emerged from all parts of the world - Contrast between modern copyright and authorship - Thompson notes that these efforts of copying and retelling traditional stories may either improve or undermine their quality -Nevertheless, this ensures that traditional principles and elements of writing are well-preserved for future generations - Wonder tale, fairy tale, and Märchen (German obviously) all synonyms for fairy tales - Different authors use slightly different ideals/ definitions of fairy tales - It's possible that we are looking for a deep meaning in fairy tales, while original writers were not focused on strict form - More focused on the plot - The plot can be chronologically ordered - Types of fairy tales - Marchen (german term) is a tale of some length involving a succession of motifs or episodes - It moves in an unreal world without definite locality or definite characters and is filled with the marvelous - Novella is when the action occurs in a real world with definite time and place, and though marvels do appear, they are such as apparently call for the hearer's belief in a way that the Marchen does not - Hero tale is a more inclusive term than either Marchen or Novella, since a tale of this kind may move in the frankly fantastic world of the former or the pseudo-realistic world of the latter - Most Marchen and Novella, of course, have heroes, but would hardly be called hero tales unless they recounted a series of adventures of the same hero - Sage (german term) English and French attempts to express the same ideas are local tradition, local legend, migratory legend, and tradition populaire This form of tale purports to be an account of an extraordinary happening believed to have actually occurred - Explanatory tale often explains the existence of some hill, mountain, land, etc - Myths are connected with religious beliefs and practices of the people - Fable is when the animal tale is told with an acknowledged moral purpose - Short anecdotes told for humorous purposes are found everywhere - jest, humorous anecdote, merry tale, and (German)

Virginia Hamilton, "The Mer-Woman Out of the Sea," in Her Stories: African American Folktales, Fairy Tales, and True Tales, pp. 78-83 {C}

- Mermaid is contained in a glass jar - Captures entrapment - Mermaid was shrinking - Rumored mermaid

Katherine Mansfield, "A Suburban Fairy Tale" (1919), 3 pp. {C}

- Metamorphosis - Slow winded - Everything is so ordinary (reminds of home) - Is suburbia itself a fairytale? - Magical distant land based on time period (1919) - Parents are busying daydreaming about ducks and hares - Representation of sparrows - Son turns into sparrow - Wants to be with the wild instead of the suburban lifestyle Themes: - Metamorphosis and Transformation: The theme of metamorphosis is central to the story, with the son undergoing a transformation from human to sparrow. This theme explores the idea of change, identity, and the struggle between one's innate nature and societal expectations. The transformation serves as a metaphor for personal growth, self-discovery, and the challenges of adapting to different environments. - Monotony and the Mundane: The story portrays a slow-paced, ordinary suburban life where the parents are preoccupied with mundane concerns like daydreaming about ducks and hares. This theme highlights the monotony and routine of suburban existence, emphasizing the contrast between the dull, predictable life in the suburbs and the allure of the magical, distant land represented by the son's transformation into a sparrow. - Desire for Freedom and Connection with Nature: The son's desire to be with the wild and embrace his sparrow form reflects a longing for freedom and a connection with nature. This theme explores the tension between the constraints of societal norms and the natural instincts for freedom and exploration. It delves into the human yearning for a deeper connection with the natural world and the struggle to break free from the confines of a conventional, suburban lifestyle.

Midterm Overview

- Midterm (Thurs. Oct. 26th) - Content through Thurs. Oct. 19 - Bring laptop (CANVAS) - Content - Part 1 identification (8 options, pick 6) - Get some quotations, characters/names, terms that we have encountered in class - Ex: Who is Jack Zippes: Socio historical approaches, we will find that the style/ content of the tale in Brother's Grimm will look very different than Charles Perault - Part 2 stock characters and themes (5 options, pick 2) - (Mini Reading Response) - No "fluffy bunnies" - Anchor text in specific terms - Ex: Grief - Instead of what he said she said... - "she wept", resolution, move on - Little mermaid showed observations as she stopped caring for her garden and taking care of herself - Part 3 Analytical reflection (3 options pick 1) - One mini essay on a bigger theme (Similar to discussion post, more contextual) - Folktale vs fairy tales - Written vs oral origins - Do the oral origins always work? - Little mermaid has no folk origins - Pure literary tale that turned into a popular Disney movie

Max Lüthi, "One-Dimensionality" and "Depthlessness," p. 4-23 {C}

- Migratory legends, like saint's legends, depict an "other" world intertwined with reality, its inhabitants affecting the ordinary world - This otherworldly realm evokes fear and fascination, blurring the line between real and strange - Narratives about encounters with beings like dwarves and giants reflect fear, curiosity, and a sense of transgression. - Folk tales feature witches, fairies, and talking animals, portraying extraordinary events without explanation, emphasizing tasks over reasons. - Legends contrast sharply with folk tales, realistically depicting both worlds. - Folk tales lack depth, describing tailored, unchanging objects and characters lacking complexity, emotion, and family ties. - These tales feature isolated, eternal youth heroes on quest-oriented adventures, emphasizing actions over feelings. - One dimensionality - Depthlessness - Limited colors - Flat and sharp - Isolation - Not held back by any connection to home - No family, home, etc. - World containment - Contains an entire world in a miniature frame - Represent the contents - Issues, feelings, and dilemmas that are common to humans around the world - Fairytales only focus on the function of characters and otherworldly creatures is all that matters - Only worry about their actions - No curiosity, no fear, to thirst for knowledge - Enchant us but the heroes and characters treat the enchantment as an everyday matter - Lack of relation to time Themes: -Fear and Fascination: Both migratory legends and folk tales evoke fear and fascination, blurring the boundaries between the real and the extraordinary. - Shallow Characters and Task-Oriented Narratives: Folk tales emphasize actions over character depth, focusing on tasks and quests rather than exploring the motivations or emotions of the protagonists.

Weaponization of Folktales and Baba Yaga (In class)

- Not a Folk Tale character (Fairy Tales) - Middle of 18th century Independent woman - Threat to society - Evil - Archetype - Named character - Distinctive attributes - Mortar and pestle, age, ugly, forest, and chicken legged - We do not fear her - Intimacy with nature - Good relationship with woods and animals - Mixed gender identity - Female/ motherly - Decisively single - Unmarried - Useful as a guide - Especially for girls transitioning from childhood to adulthood - Confused national identity - Always on the border - Unique or universal - Russian identity can be overemphasized - To complex and unpredictable - Morally ambiguous - Feminine empowerment - Capitalized in contemporary rewrites - Give backstory to justify, display, or invert her character - Ability to adapt to different social and cultural themes

Virginia Hamilton, "Catskinella," in Her Stories: African American Folktales, Fairy Tales, and True Tales, pp. 23-27 {C}

- Once upon a time, there was a beautiful girl named Ella. - Her father wanted her to marry a woodsman, gave her a talking mirror. - Ella's talking mirror warned her to be careful and instructed her to make a dress from a cat's hide and get engaged to the woodsman. - Ella followed the advice, but her godmother told her to run away on her wedding day. - Ella arrived in a kingdom where a prince fell in love with her beauty. Despite wearing a catskin dress, the prince was enchanted by her. - He ordered a cake to be made by all maidens, and when Ella's cake contained a lost ring, he declared he would marry whoever it fit. - The ring fit Ella, and they married, living happily ever after. - The story, also known as Jackskin, combines elements of Cinderella with a cat woman/witch tale. - African American storytellers often incorporated cats and other animals into their stories. - The talking mirror reflects Catskinella's desires, and transformations are common motifs in fairy tales. Themes: - Transformation and Self-Discovery: The story explores the theme of transformation, both physical and personal. Catskinella undergoes a physical transformation, wearing a catskin dress, but her true beauty is revealed through her character. This theme underscores the idea that inner qualities are more significant than outward appearances and that self-discovery leads to true happiness. - Independence and Courage: Catskinella demonstrates independence and courage by following her godmother's advice and escaping a forced marriage. She takes control of her destiny, faces challenges with bravery, and ultimately finds love on her own terms. This theme highlights the importance of independence and the courage to break free from societal expectations. - Value of Inner Beauty: The story emphasizes the value of inner beauty and true character. Despite wearing a catskin dress, Catskinella's kindness, resilience, and inner beauty captivate the prince. This theme promotes the idea that genuine goodness and inner qualities make a person truly beautiful, emphasizing the importance of empathy, kindness, and compassion in relationships.

Sturcturalism

- Only way to understand a text is in relation to a larger overarching system or structure - No such thing as a free standing text - Ex: Genre or time period - Belief that all phenomena of human life can be intelligible through connections - Criticism is that structuralism is to stiff - Need more incorporation of culture, etc. - In 2016, AI was used to map the 6 main arcs in storytelling - Sample of 2,000 tales and came up with the 6 most beloved story arcs - Literature in general and limited sample - Rags to Riches (rise) - Riches to Rags (fall) - Man in a Hole (fall then rise) - Icarus (rise then fall) - Cinderella (rise then fall then rise) - Oedipus (fall then rise then fall) - Argument 1: if there is such a rigid storyline, then why do we keep reading?

"Pygmalion," in Bulfinch's Mythology, pp. 71-72 {C}

- Sculptor Pygmalion who saw so much to blame in women that he started to "abhor" the sex and live unmarried - Sculptor, made with wonderful skill a statue of ivory, so beautiful no woman came near - As beautiful as nature itself - Fell and love and began to treat it as a "young girl" - Festival of Venus arrived - Venus was present as he asked for a wife similar to his statue - Touched the statue and it was warm, coursing with blood - Kissed her virgin lips and she blushed - Venus was happy - Paphos was born and city named after him - Ends with poem applying this tale of Pygmalion to the novel of nature in a youthful heart Themes: - Idealization and Perfection: The story of Pygmalion revolves around his idealization of beauty and perfection. He sculpts a statue so flawless and beautiful that it surpasses any living woman. This theme explores the human desire for perfection and the pursuit of idealized beauty, emphasizing the unrealistic standards set by society. - Transformation and Love: The transformation of the ivory statue into a living, breathing woman represents the power of love. Pygmalion's deep affection for his creation brings it to life, blurring the lines between art and reality. This theme delves into the transformative nature of love, illustrating its ability to bring warmth, life, and vitality to the once inanimate. - Divine Intervention and Fulfillment of Desires: The presence of Venus, the goddess of love, signifies divine intervention and the fulfillment of desires. Pygmalion's prayer for a wife similar to his statue is answered through Venus, emphasizing the role of fate and the supernatural in shaping human destinies. This theme explores the intertwining of mortal desires with divine intervention, highlighting the mystical aspects of human existence.

The Feather of Finist, the Bright Falcon,

- Similar to "Beauty and the Beast," a daughter asks for a bright falcon's feather. - A mysterious man sells it to her, and when thrown on the floor, it transforms into a charming prince. - The prince hides nightly, but the older sisters discover him. - They injure the falcon, and he sets tasks for the youngest sister. - The prince's second wife, intrigued by the prince's fidelity, spends three nights with him. - She later trades him for three apples, revealing the prince's faithlessness. Themes: - Betrayal and Faithlessness: The story explores themes of betrayal and faithlessness, depicted through the prince's actions. His unfaithfulness to both his first and second wives highlights the consequences of betrayal in relationships. - Transformation and Magical Realism: Transformation serves as a central theme, with the prince transforming between human and falcon forms. The tale embraces magical realism, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, enhancing the narrative's enchanting qualities. - Sisterly Jealousy and Rivalry: The jealousy and rivalry among the sisters drive the plot forward. Their actions, motivated by envy, lead to consequences that affect the prince and the youngest sister, highlighting the destructive power of jealousy and its impact on relationships.

Andrei Sinyavsky, "The Moral World of the Folktale," pp. 21-27 {C}

- Sinyavsky does a stellar job signifying the relevance of perfection and utopia in fairy tale/folktale fantasies - Describes how the fundamental idea of these stories is generally centered around triumphing an evil of some sort - Centuries ago, fairy tales were told to escape from harsh realities allowing common civilians to dream of a life they would never experience - Sinyavsky mentioned that these ancient fantasies primarily came to life because of impoverished civilians - Their desire to promote divine justice was both a social and cultural ideology that reinforced the theme of good over evil - Fairy tales did not differ from normal, everyday life as divine justice was often relied upon to make moral decisions in Russia during the 11th and 12th centuries - Focus on equality - However, fairy tales have never advertised that nor prioritized the need for "social utopia". - Fairy tales actually have a strong religious background and Christianity strongly emphasizes that God does not make everyone equal - This means that everyone can't find true love, be wealthy, and live happily ever after -Certain people are chosen, by fate, to live a certain life and experience life's treasures - Oral fairy tales and folktales contain an element of reality that allows us to comprehend the piece's historical, social, and cultural origins

Folk Tale

- Take characters from the familiar world/ human condition (No magic) - Husbands and wives, peasants, thieves - No happy ending - Difficulty of being married - Tale is altered after every story - Oral, once told, lost (Unless printed by compilers/ printers) - Variety -Twists, genres, forms, etc. -No tales are in original fixed form -No pure folktale

Cinderfellas: The Long-Lost Fairy Tales, By Maria Tatar

- The Guardian recently revealed the discovery of five hundred unknown Bavarian fairy tales collected by Franz Xaver von Schönwerth in the mid-1800s. - While Schönwerth's tales remained obscure, over a hundred were published in 2010. - Unlike Grimm or Perrault's versions, Schönwerth's tales lack literary polish, presenting harsher realities and fierce narratives. - His stories feature Cinderfellas, male counterparts to Cinderellas, challenging traditional gender roles. - Schönwerth documented the oral traditions of Bavaria, focusing on male and female protagonists' assertiveness and bravery, unlike the passive heroines in mainstream fairy tales. - The neglect of male protagonists in popular folklore may have been influenced by the Grimm brothers' own experiences, shaping the portrayal of male characters. - Schönwerth's tales present an enchanting world with kaleidoscopic wonders, highlighting the transformative power and equality of characters regardless of gender. Themes: - Challenging Gender Norms: Schönwerth's tales challenge traditional gender roles, featuring assertive and brave male and female protagonists, breaking away from stereotypical portrayals of passive heroines and courageous heroes. - Familial Rivalry and Betrayal: The stories explore the complexities of sibling relationships, depicting rivalry and betrayal among brothers, reflecting the harsh realities of familial dynamics. - Transformation and Equality: Schönwerth's tales emphasize the transformative power of characters and their equality, regardless of gender, challenging the conventional divisions between passive princesses and heroic princes.

Evolution of Fairy Tales? (Class Discussion)

- The Pleasant Nights- where Disney and modern tales came from - Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, etc. - 1634, Italy - The pregnant wife of a Prince had a craving for Tales - Unpolished and complex - Shocking vulgarity - Unrecognizable to a modern audience - Moves to Persian salons - Elite - 1697- Charles Parrow - 1812- The Grim Brothers - Intellects and scholars were able to preserve - Encapsulate nationality - Effort was influential - Laid groundwork for others - Russian Fairy Tale Book came to be in 1850's-1860's - What was currently reading - Some Tales censored from the published version - Reincluded just recently - 1938 - The new era of Fairy Tales comes forth (Snow White) - No definite characters - No fairy's present - Fairy Tales are minimally counterintuitive narratives - Present some cognitive dissonance - Magic and Fairies - Fantastical elements allow them to stand out but ordinary aspects are relatable - "Strange... but not too strange"

"Koshchei the Deathless," in Afanas'ev, 485-494 & "Princess Miranda and Prince Hero" (Polish folktale), 8 pp. {C}

- The Polish folktale "Princess Miranda and Prince Hero" and the Russian tale "Koshchei the Deathless" share a core narrative despite differing characters. - Both stories involve princes aiming to kill the villain Koshchei by breaking a sacred egg. - The quest includes finding an oak tree, a coffer under it, a hare inside, and a duck carrying the egg. - Animal helpers aid the princes. The tales' universal quest elements contrast with minor variations. - An intriguing point is the capitalization of Princess Miranda and Prince Hero, raising questions about potential gender bias in traditional Polish society. -Princess Miranda: More appeal due to basic Princess emphasis Personality, she froze everyone with her gaze -Definite hero Themes: -Quest and Heroism: Both tales feature princes embarking on heroic quests, emphasizing courage, determination, and resourcefulness in the face of challenges. The narrative centers on their journey to defeat the antagonist, showcasing traditional heroism. -Friendship and Help: The kindness shown by the princes towards animals, and the animals reciprocating the help, underscores themes of friendship, empathy, and mutual assistance. These stories promote the idea of interconnectedness between humans and animals. - Reward for Virtue: Both princes exhibit kindness and altruism, which ultimately lead to their success. This theme reinforces the idea that virtuous actions are rewarded, emphasizing the importance of moral character and compassion. - Universality of Folklore: The similarities in the core narrative, despite cultural differences, highlight the universal nature of folklore. These tales underscore the shared human experiences and values that transcend cultural boundaries, illustrating the power of storytelling in expressing common themes. - Gender Dynamics: The capitalization of Princess Miranda's name, while Prince Hero's name remains uncapitalized, raises questions about gender roles and biases in traditional societies. This subtle linguistic choice hints at deeper cultural norms and expectations, inviting reflection on gender dynamics within folk narratives.

"Spider and the Farmer," in The Annotated African American Folktales, p. 143-145 {C}, "Tar Baby," in The Annotated African American Folktales, p. 147-149 {C}Brothers Grimm, "Rumpelstiltskin," in Zipes Norton ed., pp. 625-628 {C}, "Ramstampeldam," in The Annotated African American Folktales, p. 486-487 {C} (All condensed and used Ashie's response because no notes)

- The Spider and the Farmer tale was very short but amusing. - Almost immediately my brain started connecting the dots between this African American folktale and Brothers Grimm, Hansel and Gretal. - The similarities between the ash and breadcrumb trail reminded me of Aarne Thompson's ATU classification system. - It does provide a framework for recognizing recurring themes in fairy tale narratives. - By finding this small, yet significant commonality, we are able to explore the universality and cultural variations of different themes in folktales/ fairy tales. - Another story that caught my attention was Tar Baby. - This African-American folktale perfectly encapsulates the use of trickery. - In this story, the King's creation of the tar baby is an act of deception. - He constructs a seemingly real figure to trick Anansi into believing it's a living being. - However, in both tales, the Spider and Anansi deceive the trickers and get away without facing any consequences. - Their cleverness allows them to manipulate the Farmer/ King. - These tales emphasize the importance of wit and resourcefulness in navigating and ultimately escaping such traps, which are common themes in many folktales. - The last tale I enjoyed reading this week was Ramstampeldam. - This piece is yet another African-American folktale. - What stood out most to me was the distinct diction that implemented words the way that they sounded, rather than through conventional spelling. - This provided a fun read that seemed very personable due to its informal nature- almost as if someone was orally telling the story. - This edition of Rumpelstiltskin, recorded by James Miller, highlights how stories are passed down and how variations can differ with each retelling. - This also supports the claim of ownership and further exemplifies how storytellers/ recorders can unknowingly manipulate a piece solely based on societal and cultural differences. From Class: - African American Tales Jibberish and fantastical Reflection of how this tale was told - Hyde - Excerpt from larger work - Defines trickster as, "boundary crossing" - Violate social and natural order - Playfully disrupt normal life

Bettelheim, "The Struggle for Meaning," pp. 269-273 {C}

- The most difficult and important task in raising a child is helping him find meaning in life - Understanding others and yourself better is key to development - Must overcome self-centered nature and contribute to something greater - How can you help a child find meaning in life? - Having parents and others who take care of the child is key - Cultural heritage being properly transmitted - Literature has an immense impact - Books that attempt to lay the foundation (informatively or entertainingly) often fail - Shallow and lacking substance - Often books cheat the child away from thought to be deeper meaning (key for development) - Books must relate to all aspects of the child's personality - Provide reinforcement to the child's problems and instilling confidence about him and his future - Complexity must be presented to children - Allows them time to cope - The child must be helped to make a coherent understanding of his feelings - Create order in his life - Fairy Tales can provide this meaning for a child - Fairy tales can be more meaningful than life itself (lesson-wise) - Able to communicate with anyone ranging from a child, to a complex adult - Universal human issues - Any level of consciousness - Fairy Tales don't belittle the child and his issues and rather provide solutions, both temporary and permanent - The child needs to comprehend the conscious self so he can navigate the unconscious (element of fantasy) - Promotes self-discovery through imagination - Child must be exposed to oddities of life - This contrasts some parenting which promotes only showing good - The child doesn't want to contradict the positive portrayal of man given by parents - Feel estranged when done so - Psychoanalysis

Donald Haase, "Yours, Mine, or Ours? Perrault, the Brothers Grimm, and the Ownership of Fairy Tales," in The Classic Fairy Tales, 435-446

- The reverence for Grimm's fairy tales in Western culture is akin to their sacred status, often considered almost as important as religious texts. - Attempts to modify these classic tales, especially by entities like Disney, are deemed sacrilegious. - The nationalistic perspective of folklore ties these tales to a nation's identity. - However, during events like WWII, fairy tales were manipulated for propaganda, leading to their differentiation based on national characteristics. - Battelheim's psychoanalytic interpretations considered fairy tales as repositories of essential human problems and timeless truths, although these "universal truths" were criticized as being rooted in specific European values. - The question of ownership arises: Do fairy tales belong to a specific culture, individual, or humanity as a whole? - The idea emerges that to truly appreciate and understand fairy tales, individuals, both children and adults, need to actively engage with them, asserting their own interpretations and adaptations. Themes: - Sacredness and Reverence: Grimm's fairy tales are revered in Western culture, often considered sacred and indispensable, comparable in importance to religious texts. Attempts to alter these tales are met with resistance and seen as sacrilegious. - Nationalism and Folklore: Folklore and fairy tales have been used to establish national identity, but they have also been manipulated for nationalistic purposes, leading to differentiation based on national characteristics. The ownership of these tales becomes a complex issue. - Active Engagement and Ownership: The ownership of fairy tales is questioned, leading to the idea that individuals, both children and adults, need to actively engage with these stories. By creating, adapting, and retelling fairy tales, people can assert their own interpretations and meanings, allowing these tales to evolve and remain relevant.

The Serpent-Tsarevich and His Two Wives" (Ukrainian Folk tale) & The Serpent-Wife

- This week's Ukrainian folktale, The Serpent-Tsarevich and His Two Wives, reminded me a lot of The Serpent-Wife which I read for my research project - At a broad level, the two folktales share a common theme of transformation. - In both stories, serpents play a central role in the plot. - In The Serpent Tsarevich and Two Wives, the magical serpent transforms into a handsome Tsarevich after his interaction with his soon-to-be first wife. - Similarly, in The Serpent-Wife, the serpent is magically transformed into the labourer's wife after their interactions. - Both tales also equally explore the theme of trust and betrayal. - In The Serpent Tsarevich and Two Wives, the prince is separated from his first wife after she informs the king of his transformation. - In The Serpent-Wife, the serpent-wife's true form is revealed due to the words spoken by the labourer. - The biggest difference was the ending. - In The Serpent-Tsarevich and His Two Wives the Tsarevich lives happily ever after with his first, faithful wife. - However, in The Serpent-Wife, the labourer ends up marrying the Tsar's daughter and the first wife slithers away in her serpent form. - Suprisingly, I was actually delighted when I read the ending of the The Serpent-Wife. - It's very uncommon for mainstream fairy tales to have a twisted ending, but it is just as vital to read these "not-so-perfect" tales. - I think that it builds character and offers another perspective for children and even adults. - Overall, I thought it was interesting that these tales highlighted the idea that appearances can be deceiving while also depicting the value in keeping your word. - Tales of this fashion are valuable contributions to the world of folklore and fairy tales, especially because of the important moral lessons that are present.

Lewis Hyde, from Slipping the Trap of Appetite, in The Classic Fairy Tales, pp. 456-459

- Trickster myth derives creative intelligence from appetite - Begins with being needing to be fed and ends with being growing mentally swift, adept at creating and unmasking deceit, hiding tracks and seeing through others - "Trickster starts out hungry, but before long he is master of the kind of creative deception that, according to long tradition, is a prerequisite of art." - Homer began making lies seem real - Odysseus is a master at lying (From grandfather, Autolycus, who got from his father, Hermes) - Hermes learned to lie when he was a hungry child begging for meat - Origin from days of hunting - Alot of fishing, Norse (Loki), Native American, and Greek - Trickster creating a fish trap common theme - Victim falls into temptation and the fish "Captures" himself - "In the invention of traps, trickster is a technician of appetite and a technician of instinct" - Loki caught himself - Cultural hero and fool - Clever predator and stupid prey - Hunger can overcome wits Themes: - Transformation and Creative Intelligence: The figure of the trickster myth highlights the transformation from basic appetitive needs to intellectual adeptness. Starting with the need for sustenance, tricksters evolve into cunning and creative beings, capable of unmasking deceit and employing deceptive strategies. This transformation underscores the journey from primal hunger to intellectual prowess and creativity. - Deception and Mastery: Tricksters are masters of deception and manipulation, employing their intellect to create traps and trick others. This theme explores the duality of tricksters as both creators and victims of deceit. Their ability to deceive is matched by their vulnerability to falling into their own traps, symbolizing the complexity of intelligence and appetite in human nature. - Cultural Variations and Universal Themes: The trickster motif is prevalent across various cultures, including Norse, Native American, and Greek mythology. Regardless of cultural differences, the theme of hunger and its relation to wit and deception is a universal concept. The figure of the trickster serves as a cultural hero, embodying both cleverness and folly, illustrating the enduring interplay between basic instincts and intellectual c

"The Wise Little Girl," in Afanas'ev, pp. 252-255

- Two brothers, one rich and one poor, have a dispute over a mare and her foal. - The matter is brought before the Tsar, who proposes riddles. - The rich brother seeks help from his godmother, while the poor brother's clever daughter provides practical answers. - The Tsar challenges the girl, impressed by her wit, but she outsmarts him at every turn. - Ultimately, she marries the Tsar and becomes the tsarina. Themes: - Cleverness and Intelligence: The story emphasizes the theme of cleverness, highlighting how intelligence and practical thinking can triumph over wealth and power. The poor brother's daughter outsmarts the Tsar and his challenges through her wit and resourcefulness. - Gender Equality and Empowerment: The story portrays a strong and intelligent young girl who not only defends her family's rights but also earns the respect of the Tsar. It promotes the theme of gender equality and showcases the empowerment of women through intelligence and determination. - Justice and Fairness: The resolution of the conflict based on the daughter's cleverness illustrates the theme of justice and fairness prevailing. The Tsar recognizes her intelligence and rewards her, ensuring that the rightful owner receives the mare's foal and ultimately marrying the girl as a just outcome

Arabian Nights: Tales of 1001 Nights

-Arabian Nights is OLD, dating to the 8th century -Originated in India and Persia -Translated into Arabic in 9th century -1775 is the first edition written and produced -Syrian and Egyptian am manuscripts also produced in 9th century -First European version produced in early 18th century, before Arabic -French translator is the reason we know of Ali Baba current day -Victorian era translations came forth -Strict victorian laws censored original material and only published to subscribers -Our copy was published in 2008 -Closest to the original -Egyptian manuscript as possible -Reasons the Arabian Nights may not be as popular in Middle East as it is in the West: -Common knowledge for those in Middle East -Distance and time period create appeal -Urban merchants is target audience

Fairy Tale

-Magical -Happy ending (marriage) -Subclass of folklore Marrigal presented as matter of fact

"The Letter Trick" (Surinamese), in Angela Carter's Book of Fairy Tales, pp. 270-271 {C}

Fake woman, tricks

"Baba Yaga"

In a distant past, an old man with a daughter from his first wife marries a wicked woman who mistreats the girl. The stepmother sends the daughter to Aunt Baba Yaga, hoping she'll be killed. However, the girl cleverly outwits Baba Yaga with the help of various characters, including a cat, dog, maid, door, and birch tree. When she returns home, she reveals the stepmother's wicked plan. In response, the father shoots his wife, ensuring his daughter's safety. The tale concludes with a jovial remark about drinking mead and beer. "I was there and drank mead and beer; it ran down my mustache, but it never got into my mouth"

"The Mermaid," in The Annotated African American Folktales, p. 481-482 {C}

Mermaids in the atlantic ocean Sam gets thrown overboard, but marries the mermaid Very random "lets get married" Lives a good life Jealous girlfriend Girlfriend asks him if he wants to go back to land Returns back but lives underground for 6 years Themes: - Unexpected Alliances and Relationships: The theme of unexpected relationships emerges as Sam, initially thrown overboard, marries a mermaid in a seemingly random and unconventional manner. This highlights the unpredictable nature of connections, emphasizing that profound bonds can be formed in the most unexpected circumstances. - Navigating Jealousy and Temptation: The presence of a jealous girlfriend introduces the theme of navigating jealousy and temptation within relationships. Sam's decision to return to land showcases the complexities of human emotions and the challenges individuals face in maintaining their commitments amidst external pressures. - Adaptation and Transformation: Sam's choice to live underground for six years signifies a theme of adaptation and transformation. This decision reflects his ability to adjust to new environments and circumstances, showcasing resilience and the capacity for individuals to undergo significant changes in their lives.

"Cupid and Psyche," in Bulfinch's Mythology: Stories of Gods and Heroes, pp. 89-99 {C}

Psyche is a mortal princess known for her extraordinary beauty, which leads people to compare her to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. As a result, jealous Venus orders her son, Cupid, to use his arrows to make Psyche fall in love with a monstrous and unworthy suitor. However, Cupid accidentally pricks himself with one of his own arrows and falls deeply in love with Psyche when he sees her. He carries her to a beautiful palace and visits her in the darkness of night to keep his identity hidden. He warns her never to try to see his face. As the story unfolds, Psyche's sisters convince her to discover the true identity of her mysterious husband, believing he might be a monster. Psyche disobeys Cupid's warning and tries to glimpse his face, leading to her banishment from the palace and her quest to win back Cupid's love. Themes: - Love: - Transformation - Trust - Inner-beauty

Philip M. Sherlock, "From Tiger to Anansi," from Anansi, the Spiderman: Jamaican Folk Tales, pp. 154-157 {C}

Tiger is the strongest animal in the forest, while Anansi the spider is considered the weakest. Anansi approaches Tiger and asks to have something named after him, like Tiger has many things named after him. Tiger agrees to this but sets a condition: Anansi must capture Snake alive. Anansi tries various traps to catch Snake but fails each time. On the final day, Anansi tricks Snake into claiming to be longer than a bamboo tree. Anansi ties Snake's head to the bamboo tree, proving that Snake is not the longest. Anansi wins the bet, and the stories remain named after him. Tiger is no longer associated with these stories, and Anansi's reputation is restored. Themes: - Cleverness and Resourcefulness: The story showcases the theme of cleverness and resourcefulness. Anansi, despite being the weakest animal, uses his wit and ingenuity to outsmart Snake and win the bet. This emphasizes the value of intelligence and quick thinking in overcoming physical strength. - Deception and Trickery: Deception and trickery are prominent themes in the story. Anansi tricks Snake into making a false claim about its length, leading to Snake's defeat. This highlights the cunning nature of Anansi and illustrates how clever strategies can be used to achieve one's goals, even against stronger opponents. - Power Dynamics and Perception: The tale explores power dynamics and how perceptions of strength and weakness can be deceptive. Despite Tiger being the strongest animal, it is Anansi, the supposedly weakest creature, who emerges victorious. This challenges traditional notions of power and highlights the importance of self-belief and strategy in shaping perceptions and outcomes.