In this essay, the author will first look at the background in which The Werewolf is set (the story Little Red Riding Hood), and will analyze the message of the story by looking at how The Werewolf is different from it.
According to Barry (2017), the structuralists use scientific methods to analyze a literary work. They look into the conventions of the genre, the history or different forms of art (including other literature) that the literary work refers to. They think that there will be an absolute answer in what the literature wants to tell the audience, if we study close and careful enough on the context.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- The original story
- Differences from the original story - Added Festivals
- Differences from the original story - Opposite ending
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay analyzes Angela Carter's retelling of the classic fairy tale, "Little Red Riding Hood," in her story "The Werewolf," from the perspective of structuralism and feminism. It examines how Carter uses the familiar framework of the original story to explore themes of gender, power, and societal norms.
- The influence of structuralism and feminism in literary analysis.
- The reinterpretation of traditional fairy tales by feminist writers.
- The subversion of gender stereotypes and the portrayal of female agency.
- The role of folklore and cultural beliefs in shaping societal perceptions.
- The power dynamics between men and women in the context of folklore and myth.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The introduction establishes the framework of the essay, outlining the approach of using structuralist and feminist theories to analyze "The Werewolf." It highlights the importance of understanding the original story's context and the significance of Carter's retelling in the context of second-wave feminism.
The essay then explores the original version of "Little Red Riding Hood," highlighting its key elements and narrative structure. It proceeds to analyze the differences between Carter's version and the original, focusing on the addition of details like St John's Eve and Walpurgisnacht. It argues that these additions underscore the superstitious nature of the villagers and the possibility of a misogynistic interpretation of events.
The essay further delves into the contrasting ending of Carter's "The Werewolf," highlighting how the girl's agency and defiance against the wolf and the possessed grandmother challenges the original narrative's depiction of female weakness and vulnerability.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This essay explores key themes of structuralism, feminism, fairy tales, gender roles, societal norms, folklore, and the reinterpretation of classical narratives. It analyzes the work of Angela Carter, specifically focusing on "The Werewolf," and its feminist perspective on the original "Little Red Riding Hood" tale.
- Quote paper
- Kwan Lung Chan (Author), 2019, Structuralism and Feminism Applied. Angela Carter’s "The Werewolf", Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/934499
