Folklore History

What is the folklore behind Cinderella?

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The first story of Cinderella took place in 63 BC. Some readings say this was based on a true event. The folktales come from towns with a mix of social class and with Cinderella living in a not-so great situation (Newell, 1894).

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What is the folk group of Cinderella?

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Cinderella is a girl who has a low social standing. Usually as maid or servant to the household which consists of her stepmother and stepsister(s). There are girls in this situation everyday and everywhere (Ohmer, 1993).

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What makes Cinderella a folktale?

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The fact that the concept behind Cinderella can be experienced by girls around the world makes this a folktale. Girls can tell and hope to live a possible ending such as this.

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Who is the villain of the tale?

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The stepmother and stepsister(s). There are stories with just one stepsister. There are some variations as to who is the primary villain between the stepmother and stepsister(s) (Mollet, 2013).

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Is Cinderella a heroine?

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There are many aspects that have been examined by folklorist that suggest that Cinderella is more of a damsel in distress rather than a heroine. She waits for a prince to rescue her from her situation rather than fight for her social standing (Ohmer, 1993).