Mentor
Keely Tary
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-2023
Abstract
Fairy tales are stories that are defined and shaped by the cultures they are told within, lending them naturally fluid forms as the societal boundaries of each generation and change and expand. This research paper explores certain fairy tales under the lens of Monster Theory and the Seven Theses proposed by Jeffery Jerome Cohen from his introductory essay “Monster Culture (Seven Theses).” Through careful analysis and dissection, this paper offers a deeper look into the nature and construction of monsters and reveals the purpose monstrosity serves in society other than just to frighten. By delving into the insights proposed by Cohen, mapping the history of fairy tales, and tracking the multiple version of the fairy tale researched that exist throughout time, this paper provides readers a swath of evidence that exposes monsters as the reflections humanity attempts to separate itself from, but can never truly escape.
Recommended Citation
Pak, Elsie, "Fairy Tales in Relation to Monster Theory: Stories Defining the Transformation of Culture" (2023). Student Research. 5.
https://knowledge.e.southern.edu/eng_studentresearch/5