Fairy tales form an important part of children's literature.Fairy tales are well-known classics that have continued to change and evolve with the times. They were passed down through the generations, first as part of the oral tradition, and only later were written down. Charles Perrault was considered the first person to write down these stories and make them into a separate literary genre. “Fairy tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.” ― G.K. Chesterton Perrault's stories were intended for adults rather than children. But by the 1800s people like the Brothers Grimm were publishing stories for children--their most well-know book was first entitled Household Stories by the Brothers Grimm. You can definitely tell that a version of Cinderella from a book in the 1900s is very different than one written today.
Just think of one of the original versions by Charles Perrault and compare them with the more modern Disney Cinderella from 1950. Today's version would feature a more plucky feminist heroine, take for instance the story Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine. Many collections of stories have been updated to more politically correct versions such as Girls to the Rescue and Newfangled Fairy Tales by Bruce Lansky. Also with the increased emphasis of multicultural education, children are likely to know the story of Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China as they would the classic tale of Cinderella. This is a sign that the themes in these stories are truly universal, a major reason for their appeal. They are appealing to children because of their rich use of fantasy and elements of repetition in the story, among other things. There are also elements such as a quest and conflict between the forces of good and evil, as well as lots of romance and adventure that are a part of these and many other classic stories. Children might even enjoy pretending that they are the hero or heroine in these stories. Today children are often exposed to the film versions of these stories first, such as the classic animated features by Disney. But they'll find that these stories are lots of fun to read as well. Why not share the rich tradition of fairy tales with them today?
Do you have a favorite fairy tale?Share your favorite story with us and tell us why you like it. What Other Visitors Have SaidClick below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...
Snow White
Mulan
The 3 Billy Goats Gruff
The little mermaid
JUNGLE BOOK
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winnie the pooh
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Sleeping Beauty
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The Little Mermaid
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Cinderella
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cinderella
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The Magic Faraway Tree (Trilogy)
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Alice in wonderland
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The Ugly Duckling
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