Stereotypes Of Women In Fairy Tales

Fairy tales are an essential part of literature. They play a significant role in children’s lives as they provide an understanding of the world and the difference between good and evil. Fairy tales are introduced during a time when children soak up knowledge, therefore it is no surprise tales play a role in shaping youth (Nanda, 2014). Knowing this, it is important to be aware of the portrayal of characters within these tales. Typical stereotypes associated with male and female characters can be dangerous as it provides children with a simplified perception of gender roles and the way the world functions. The perception of women is the beautiful princess who needs help and is “inferior,” while men are strong, courageous and save the naive princess
Gretel, from Hansel and Gretel, has common sense and kills the evil witches both of which are not typical of a female protagonist. Similarly, Rapunzel and Snow White’s female characters challenge the passivity of their “typical” role through the power of speech (Nanda, 2014). Neither are passive nor silent. Snow White and Rapunzel start off objects of desire and through speech/voice are able to change their sense of purpose (Nanda, 2014). In the beginning of Rapunzel, is of value because of her luscious locks. After losing her hair, she finds her voice, which signifies her freedom (Nanda, 2014). Speech is a powerful tool female characters use as “weapons to fight challenges” (Nanda, 2014). As well, speech indicates a “women’s predicament of being oppressed by the dominant power and their urge to speak out” (Nanda, 2014). It is said it is Rapunzel’s voice which attracts the prince and it is her inner beauty that pushes him to climb the tower (Nanda, 2014). Her beauty comes from within, which is quite the contrary to some other fairy
The “visual and textual influence” from fairy tales is “especially powerful in children” (Patel, 2009). Tales create ideals. The reinforcement that women should be “wives and mothers, submissive and self-sacrificing…silent passive, without ambition, beautiful and eager to marry” (Nanda, 2014). Fairy tales teach children “behaviour patterns, value systems and how to predict the consequences of specific actions” (Louie, 2012). It is important to be aware of gender stereotypes associated with male and female characters as readers tend to identify with those of their own sex. Like Freud states, “children adopt the characteristics, beliefs, attitudes, values, and behaviours of the same sex parent” (Louie, 2012). As stated above, sex and gender are separate, however, society places gender specific attitudes and behaviours on males and females. This impacts a child’s view on their place within society, as well as their view on themselves as individuals. These stereotypes placed on individuals “deprive children of the freedom and force them to behave in ways that are gender appropriate rather than ways that best suit their personalities” (Louie, 2012). Through fairy tales and media, humans are socialized into placing stereotypes on gender traits and