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Tell Me A Story: Fairy Tales And The Feminist Conflict, Kathleen M. Noonan

Honors Theses, 1963-2015

Although the feminist critique of fairy tales is a legitimate and necessary step toward equality for women in modern society, the traditional fairy tale genre is also a critical factor in the happiness and enjoyment of the audience. Elements of traditional fairy tales such as love, adventure, or beauty do not only place women in submissive and passive roles, but they also provide the entertainment which makes fairy tales appealing. Many feminist readers also want to read and enjoy traditional fairy tales, but are caught in a self-imposed conflict between the desire for elements which they know will oppress women …