Archetypes In Cinderella

Cinderella, a well-known fairytale, has been passed down through generations. “One of the oldest known literary renderings of the theme is a Chinese version recorded in the 9th century AD.¨ (¨Cinderella.¨ Merriam webster´s encyclopedia of Literature.) The Cinderella fairytale, after being around for centuries, has made a colossal impact on each generation since it’s creation. This ancient Chinese fairytale, despite its multiple variations, follows the same vague plot. “The story of Cinderella follows young Ella whose merchant father remarries following the death of her mother. Eager to support her loving father, she finds herself at the mercy of her jealous and cruel new family.” (“Cinderella.” Disney Movies.)
Cinderella graciously accepts
Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother represents the “divine help” sent to assist the protagonist, Cinderella, in her journey to happiness and success. Her magic wand and spells make all the midnight magic possible as well as Cinderella’s happily ever after. One could say Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother also represents her mother reincarnated. “A particularly felicitous expression of feelings is to be found in "Cinderella." After her sisters go to the ball and leave her behind: "She followed them with her eyes as long as she could, and when she had lost sight of them she began to cry. Her godmother who saw her all in tears asked her what was the matter. 'I wish I could, I wish I could.' ... She was crying so much that she could not finish. Her godmother, who was a fairy, said to her: 'You wish you could go to the Ball, is that it?'"40 This is a clear evocation of childhood, with warm and tender attention to the speech of a child.” (Barchilon). The Fairy Godmother immediately creates a mother-daughter relationship with Cinderella since the real mother-like figure has been missing from Cinderella’s life for quite some time. Cinderella represents the child desiring someone who supports her with utter strength. Kindness bring you far whether its with your step-family or just in life. “Always Be Kind No Matter What - A little kindness goes a long way, and no doubt Cinderella is a kind soul. Her kindness can make her seem like a pushover (especially when her evil stepmother and stepsisters are overloading her with housework!). But it actually takes a certain quiet strength to remain as kind as she does to others, be it elderly ladies who turn out to be fairy godmothers or defenseless animals. Cinderella's kindness allows her to be selfless, to remain grateful and to appreciate others. Takeaway: Help your kids understand the importance of kindness and generosity, and