The Universal Fairy Tale: Cinderella
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I have always loved fairy tales, for as long as I can remember they have been a favorite. And I know I am not the only one. And as a mom I love fairy tales even more. They are an integral part of our home life and of our home education. Not because they can be used to escape the world but because they teach us about the world. And none teaches us more about the world around us than Cinderella! For the foreseeable future, the Daily Picture Book Monthly Booklist will contain a Cinderella story.
A Cinderella story?
Do I mean that there is more than one Cinderella story? Yes! That is exactly what I mean! Through the years I have discovered that the story of Cinderella is truly international and intercultural! It is THE fairy tale by excellence. The first Cinderella story can be dated back to the Greeks and rapidly made its way through the known world. The first written Cinderella story was found in China and is dated some time during the Ninth Century. And from there you can find Cinderella spreading through the world! From pole to pole Cinderella is in every culture and in every language.
Around the world with Cinderella
I have found that there is nothing more enchanting than to visit the world with a friend. And Cinderella can easily be that friend! For years now I have been collecting Cinderella picture books set around the world and through time. They are a wonderful addition to any geography or history curriculum. It is also very addictive! Every time I discover a new story I am surprised at how differently a different culture relates this story, without changing its thread, meaning, beauty and truth about life. It is truly incredible!
Universality
Why is Cinderella such a universal story? Because of the truths that it contains. It is the eternal tale of the triumph of good over evil, that goodness has its reward. It shows that a virtuous life is worth living despite hardships. In many of the different versions that I have explored, the step-sisters become good because of Cinderella’s example.
In each version the essential elements are present: an orphaned girl, a wicked step mother with one or two daughters, a fairy godmother, a prince, a celebration and a lost ornament. It has been so fascinating for my children and I to compare and contrast how each culture responds to each of these elements. I have created a lovely spread sheet to enter all the different elements for each story.
The monthly pick
Come and join us to explore each delightful Cinderella story through the Booklover Booklist! They might get sprinkled through the other Booklists but the Booklover Booklist is the one that I can guarantee they will be present in. I hope you can enjoy a world tour with Cinderella and find it as enchanting as I do!
Love,
Mattie
