![]() In many of the Grimm Brothers’ stories, there is an evil mother, or stepmother. “Little Snow-White” transforms stepmothers into a negative, wicked character. Although there are many themes in this story that have influenced today’s generation, there is one characteristic of the story that stands out the most, and that is, stepmothers. Next, the story of “Little Snow-White”, also contains dark themes. Women’s role is one of weakness, and men always having to take control of the situation. This story has influenced the image of men and women in society, and how they should play their roles. The character of “Cinderella” is a bad example for women as she does not fight against the cruel situation she is in, rather, most of the time she is submissive and does not take matters into her own hands and runs away instead, she just waits for the day her prince will find her and rescue her. This female character gives the image that women should be weak, and not fend for themselves. Whereas the male character is always the one to save the damsel in distress, ultimately being portrayed as strong, sure of himself, and the hero of the story. In “Cinderella,” one can compare the male character to the female character and instantly notice how Grimm Brother’s idea of a good woman is always portrayed as beautiful, weak, innocent, and submissive. Although when taking another look at it from a different point of view, one can realize that the theme of “Cinderella” is not a theme of hope or finding true happiness, on the contrary, it is based strongly on sexism.Īccording to critics, in “Cinderella” girls got the message that “In order for them to succeed, they needed to fit into the narrow view of what was beautiful, as well as being kind, generous, self-sacrificing, the epitome of patience and forgiveness” (The Artifice). The original version is much more dark, violent, and sends many negative messages to people of all ages.Īt first, one would think that these so-called fairy tales, are harmless and innocent, and give out a positive message. To begin with, the story of “Cinderella” as it is told today, is very different from the original Grimm Brother’s version. Stories such as “Cinderella,” which has a strong theme of sexism and gender roles, “Little Snow-White,” which places a negative connotation on stepmothers, and teaches that beauty is power, and last but not least, “Hansel and Gretel” in which the theme of gender roles is the main focus, are just a few examples of the Grimm’s brothers most well-known influential stories. ![]() Although these stories contained dark themes, they became popular amongst all generations. In fact, they often times included dark themes such as violence, or sex. These fairy tale stories, did not really have much of a fairy tale feel to them. In fact, the Grimm’s never intended the tales to be read by children.” (Zipes). ![]() “The stories the Brothers Grimm first collected are brusque, comical, and tragic, and are not, strictly speaking, “fairy tales.” Originally, these stories were meant to be read by adults, not children. In all of the original, Grimm Brother’s fairytales, there are many subtle messages that have one way or another shaped today’s generation, not so much in a positive way. But, what is the hidden message behind the characters of princesses and princes? This fantasy that is portrayed by the stories show that good always wins, and evil always suffers. Fairy tales have been present in many generations, portraying a fantasy world for people of all ages.
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