Type of Presentation
Poster Session
Location
University Library
Start Date
4-9-2026 11:30 AM
End Date
4-9-2026 12:45 PM
Abstract
Fairy tales have played a crucial role in children's literature, shaping cultural narratives and imparting moral lessons to young readers. This research examines how traditional European fairy tales, particularly those from the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault, have been adapted within American children's literature. This study explores the significant role of Disney in reshaping these narratives for mass audiences and analyzes how core fairy tale themes persist in contemporary children's books. Through literary analysis, this study investigates how European originals, such as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Beauty and the Beast, have evolved in American adaptations. Additionally, historical research will trace how these changes reflect shifting societal values, particularly in gender roles, morality, and cultural representation. The study incorporates a textual analysis of classic and modern versions, a cultural impact study focusing on Disney’s influence, and a thematic exploration of recurring fairy tale motifs, such as transformation (where characters undergo significant physical, emotional, or magical changes), good versus evil, and the hero’s journey. By tracing these transformations, this research highlights the enduring legacy of fairy tales in shaping American storytelling for young readers, illustrating their continued relevance and evolution in response to cultural, historical, and literary shifts over time.
Faculty / Staff Sponsor
Professor Laura White
Presentation File
wf_yes
Included in
The Influence of Fairytales on American Children’s Literature
University Library
Fairy tales have played a crucial role in children's literature, shaping cultural narratives and imparting moral lessons to young readers. This research examines how traditional European fairy tales, particularly those from the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault, have been adapted within American children's literature. This study explores the significant role of Disney in reshaping these narratives for mass audiences and analyzes how core fairy tale themes persist in contemporary children's books. Through literary analysis, this study investigates how European originals, such as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Beauty and the Beast, have evolved in American adaptations. Additionally, historical research will trace how these changes reflect shifting societal values, particularly in gender roles, morality, and cultural representation. The study incorporates a textual analysis of classic and modern versions, a cultural impact study focusing on Disney’s influence, and a thematic exploration of recurring fairy tale motifs, such as transformation (where characters undergo significant physical, emotional, or magical changes), good versus evil, and the hero’s journey. By tracing these transformations, this research highlights the enduring legacy of fairy tales in shaping American storytelling for young readers, illustrating their continued relevance and evolution in response to cultural, historical, and literary shifts over time.