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The Film Adaptation Ever After Versus The Brothers Grimm Adaptation "Aschenputtle"

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The film, Ever After is an adaptation of the Brother’s Grimm fairy tale adaptation, “Aschenputtle.” This film reflects a feminist attitude on the traditional view of the “damsel in distress” character which is present in the Grimm’s adaptation. Unlike Aschenputtle from the Grimm’s tale, the protagonist from the film, whose name is Danielle, does not hold true to the stereotype that all women should be well mannered and well behaved at all times. Additionally, Danielle is a more independent character with a stronger voice, as opposed to Aschenputtle who really does not speak up for herself. Lastly, the Prince’s focus is not solely based on looks in the film; he cares about brains as well, where as the Prince in Aschenputtle cares far more …show more content…

Aschenputtle is referred to always acting “pious and good,” which suggests the idea that ladies must be on their best behavior at all times; they must always put on a proper act. As seen in this example, it is obvious that Danielle does not feel the need to be perfect all of the time, where as Aschenputtle has this “perfect persona” in which she must uphold to in order to be accepted. Another unladylike situation is when Danielle throws apples at Prince Henry before she actually realizes he is the Prince. She is under the impression that a random thief is stealing one of her Father’s horses, therefore; she feels that she should stand up in the name of her deceased father. She whips a plentiful amount of apples and scolds the Prince very highly up until she realizes who he is. She then bows down at his presence and states that if she knows she should be put to death. In this particular example, she does stand up for herself, yet she does back down to the Prince because he is of a higher social class and power. Even though there are many instances where she is an independent and outspoken woman, this is one of the few times where she falters in the presence of a man. Yet another instance where it is evident that Danielle is not particularly “feminine,” is when the Queen says that Danielle possesses “masculine

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