Cinderella Research Paper

788 Words2 Pages

In the Grimm brothers’ fairy tale “Cinderella,” themes of gender roles, beauty standards, and dependence on men are encountered. These are expressed as a kind, pious girl struggles with the death of her mother and faces unfair treatment from her new family. Modelling an ideal woman of society, Cinderella remains filled with integrity, resilience, and patience in order to overcome her misfortune. As her step-sisters fixate on materialistic items, obsessing over their beauty and awaiting a rich man to wed, Cinderella conforms to her family's demands of servitude as she completes household chores. The fairy tale “Cinderella” reveals several of the traditional viewpoints regarding women’s appearance. Initially, the tale unveils that a customary, …show more content…

An announcement of a three-day festival by the King uncovers that beauty plays a large role regarding who receives an invitation: “All the beautiful young girls in the land were invited, so that his son could select a bride for himself” (Grimm 1). A standard expectation is on display, enforcing the need for women to look attractive to be considered for marriage. The word “beautiful” highlights the societal viewpoint for women at the time and puts emphasis on physical appearance as the primary way to attract a husband. Considering that the prince will “select” a woman to wed based on her beauty, the expectation for women to look their best is considered crucial for finding a partner. This pressures Cinderella to present herself as prettier to impress the prince, since she is compelled by the traditional belief. Ultimately, “Cinderella” portrays that women are accustomed to the societal viewpoint of looking beautiful if they wish to be present at conventions. Additionally, the way women dress is important for acquiring a man’s attention according to traditional …show more content…

Her stepmother's criticism demonstrates how Cinderella must adjust to the societal expectations of faddish clothing in order to attend festivals of high-status men. The emphasis on the word “you” displays the unfair treatment that Cinderella, alone, experiences as a result of not owning the appropriate attire associated with the time being. Also, the phrase “neither clothes nor shoes,” implies that women must display themselves in fashionable clothing in order to appear presentable. As well, it portrays the customary importance of appearing glamorous in places of wealthy men. Overall, the tale reiterates the constant pressure women face to dress well for men as a result of traditional expectations. Furthermore, the standard idealization of elegant, petite items drives women to appear more alluring. Cinderella’s gleaming footwear allows other characters to embody the traditional, feminine stereotype of small feet. Her shoe size reveals that men desire women who appear diminutive. After losing sight of his future bride, the prince finds a slipper which belongs to her: “It was small and dainty, and of pure gold” (Grimm

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