Cinderella Research Paper

Cinderella is one of the most well-known and oldest fairy tale. Most of us have heard of the story or have even watch it as a movie or play. The story has developed many different versions but portray many of the same popular themes. Cinderella by Charles Perrault and Aschenputtel by The Grimm Brother's in particular are the versions that will be discussed. The character of Cinderella demonstrates many characteristics both praised and criticized. As children we pay attention to the storyline and characters but never notice the hidden social themes and religious symbolism. This story is filled with lessons all should learn. Cinderella's character is seen as innocent, naive and kind. These characteristics pretty much determine her destiny. Because

Because of the change in our culture, Cinderella's role is often criticized, especially by feminists. Gender roles are depicted in this story ( Watts, 2015). Cinderella exemplifies a weak role, she is in acceptance of her "worthlessness" and lets her step sisters do with her as they pleased. She also shows herself as powerless unless she has a man on her side. She is dependent on others, males in particular and does not have her "happily ever after" until she meets her man. This story pretty much makes women look like they are in the need of a man to "rescue them." Cinderella was written in the late 1600's by Charles Perrault then later in the 1800's by the Grimm brothers. It has recently become an issue because of our change on our views on women. It wasn't until recently the past 100 years that women have begun to rise up and improve their social status. Women were always seen as inferior and weak. Cinderella is a prime example on how women used to be portrayed as. Today, women have become independent and have raised themselves in status, which is why Cinderella would now be viewed as weak by others where hundreds of years ago her actions were a norm (Snodgrass, 2015). Those who forfeit their independence in order to meet a man that completes their lives are now given the term of having a "Cinderella complex" which nowadays would have a negative connotation behind it. This term can also be given generally to women whom are dependent and “deserve” more attention than what they receive (Anand,