When we compare and contrast Bruno Bettelheim’s interpretation of “Snow White” and Anne Sexton’s retelling of the poem “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” we discover the different perspectives and themes each author brings to the classic fairy tale. focus should be considered. Bettelheim emphasizes the developmental aspects of the story, with psychological elements in his reading. He sees “Snow White” as a coming-of-age story that explores themes of maturity, narcissism, and sexual awakening. Bettelheim’s interpretation suggests that the story symbolizes psychological growth from girlhood to adulthood. His focus is on how children can relate fairy tales to their own experiences and understand the deeper meanings beneath the surface-level stories. For example, he interprets Snow White’s repeated failures to open doors despite warnings as a metaphor for the repeated mistakes one makes on the path to learning and maturity. Anne Sexton’s poem “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”, on the other hand, takes a more critical and modern approach. In her version, Snow White is depicted not only as a fairy tale character, but also as a symbol of social pressures on women, especially regarding beauty and innocence. The poem’s ending, which alludes to the influence of mirrors, can be interpreted as a commentary on how women are viewed and judged in society.
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3 thoughts on “Week 11 Discussion”
In my understanding in your response, in her poem, Sexton challenges societal assumptions around female sexuality and attractiveness as well as the terrible cycle they nourish. At the beginning of the poem, Sexton presents the delicate, innocent image of feminine behavior and beauty. The ending of the poem, which refers to the power of mirrors, might be seen as an observation of how society views and evaluates women. This demonstrates even more how women in modern society seek to be attractive and to have themselves portrayed in this way from their childhood stories.
Sexton questions social beliefs about female sexuality and appearance, pointing out the vicious cycle they perpetuate. She portrays an innocent vision of feminine conduct and beauty, yet the finale, which refers to the power of mirrors, depicts how society looks and assesses women, emphasizing the need for appearance and the cultural representation of women in kid stories.
Yuki, please include your name in the title of each Db. Also, please, please, do not change anything in the “Category Sticky” box when you are posting. Leave that to read “Select a Category.” When you enter the week of the DB in Category Sticky, my directions are moved from the first place position, where they need to be. Thank you!