Fairytalerelevance (1)
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
University of Phoenix *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
260
Subject
English
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
6
Uploaded by HighnessAtomEagle34
Relevance of Fairy Tales in More Modern Society
Tori Daily
University of Phoenix
ENG/260
Kristen McQuinn
Oct. 16, 2023
Relevance of Fairy Tales in More Modern Society
Fairy tales have fascinated readers for generations, providing a glimpse into a magical
world filled with important moral lessons. They have been a part of human culture, catching the
attention of all audiences with enchanting narratives and lessons. One such tale is the classic
story of "Little Red Cap", which has been retold and adapted in various forms throughout the
years, including the 1989 Chinese story "Lon Po Po" and the 2023 version "Little Blue Riding
Hood". These stories are entertaining, thought-provoking, and sure to capture the imagination of
any reader. As society evolves, it is inevitable that these stories will undergo changes to remain
relevant to modern readers. In the modern versions of "Little Red Cap", several changes have
been made to the original story. For example, the character of the wolf is often replaced by a
more intelligent and assertive female protagonist. In "Lon Po Po", the three wolf sisters are the
main characters and they outsmart the wolf. In "Little Blue Riding Hood", the story is set in an
urban environment, reflecting the reality of modern society as the characters attempt to enjoy a
picnic.
While their origins can be traced back for centuries, fairy tales continue to be relevant to
today’s society. Even though there are several changes made to these newer stories being retold,
the same basic core principles are still there that teach these life lessons, just like in Little Red
Riding Hood stories. Little Red Cap is one with a young girl who sets out to go through the
woods, then runs into the wolf. After running into the villain of the story, the danger continues
but in the end she still overcomes the battle. In addition to that, the red cape shows innocence
and vulnerability which is present in all versions of the tale. Kept also in these retellings
throughout time are themes of disobedience and being cautious. Trying to decipher what is
reality or not shows it is difficult to trust someone or a certain situation until you know the truth.
These tales often contain universal themes such as the triumph of good over evil, the importance
of kindness and bravery, and the consequences of greed and selfishness.
In the modern retelling of "Little Red Cap" the story went a little deeper into the original
issues, offering insightful thoughts on today’s society. In "Lon Po Po," for instance, the story
highlights that people are not always what they seem to show and the importance of quick
critical thinking. By including a trio of sisters who trick their way through grandmother’s home,
the story teaches how we cannot blindly trust someone just by what they look like and really
pushes that idea of deceit. Things are not always are rarely what they seem to be. Wolf says he is
grandmother, but when the sisters discover he was not her, they were quick to think and trick the
wolf. When they find out who the wolf is, they break the gender norm of the women failing in
the tales and they overcome the wolf by outsmarting him. Just the same, "Little Blue Riding Hood" talks about the dangers of venturing out into the
city, especially alone and vulnerable. Grandmother and Little Blue Riding Hood go out to have a
picnic, but danger lurks around every corner. There will always be something to be cautious
about when exploring so they hit the fact that you can have fun but be smart and aware of your
surroundings. It focuses on the issue of urbanization and its impact on the safety and innocence
of individuals. The world today is not like it was in Brother Grimms' time. It is busier and much
more dangerous and there are different kinds of danger to be cautious about. Through this
retelling of the story, it raises awareness about the need for caution and the importance of
community support. In additon to the lesson of how we need to be cautious, the story also shows
that one does not have to be what society says they are. Little Red wanted different capes in case
she was in the mood for a different color. Why does she only have to have a red cape?
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
Some people may look at fairytales or folklore to be just a bedtime story for children and
to be put away on the bookshelf after they fall asleep. Their relevance to adults and modern life
remains quite strong though. Fairy tales provide adults with something to explore more depth
these themes and lessons in a simple and fun way. They give the magical feeling of escaping
everyday life and make individuals use their imagination in ways they may not have thought they
could do.
Furthermore, fairy tales continue to play a significant role in the moral and ethical
development of adults. These cherished tales present characters faced with various trials and
tribulations, allowing readers to engage with their own emotions and experiences. By retelling
and adapting these stories for a modern audience, the authors present a platform for adults to
reflect on their own lives and make meaning out of their experiences. Children are not the only
ones who can receive guidance from these stories throughout the years. Adults can always be
reminded of how to morally deal with certain issues or help them process other important battles
they are going through. Explaining moral lessons through a fairytale might be the only magical
and enticing way children, as well as adults, can experience something so enchanting and learn at
the same time. In conclusion, fairy tales and folklore hold immense relevance in modern society. These
moral lessons not only entertain but also educate readers, helping them navigate the complexities
of life and make ethical choices. Through adaptations like "Lon Po Po" and "Little Blue Riding
Hood," these stories continue to engage adult audiences by addressing strong and critical issues
in fun and imaginative ways. By pushing through generation to generation, fairy tales remind us
of the timeless nature of normal human experiences and the amazing power of storytelling. By
changing to fit modern society, they can connect with more individuals, thus teaching life lessons
to everyone throughout history.
References:
Fairy Talez. “Little Red Cap, Brothers Grimm” FairyTalez, 15 Oct. 2023,
https://fairytalez.com/little-red-cap-little-red-riding-hood-grimms-version/
Young, E. (1989). Lon Po Po. Philomel Books.
Kaczmarek, A. (2023). Little Blue Riding Hood. Storyberries.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help