GER 1791 Lecture 2: Lesson 2 - Little Red Riding Hood
Document Summary
The historical transformations of little red riding hood. Believed to be in circulation before perrault"s tale. Contains elements with cognate tale types from around the world. Elements not contained in perrault or grimm. Path of pins / path of needles. Passage of time and transition to adulthood. Success of negotiating passage from childhood to adulthood despite the risk. Warning tale -> danger posed by people, animals, supernatural (werewolves) Tale of passage from girlhood to adulthood. Red hood is added (not present in grandmothers tale) More refined, intended for courtly audience of 17th century. Writing about societal expectations of his day, gives warning about suitable behaviour for girls and women. Caution to protect reputation and value for marriage. Moral children, especially attractive, well bred young ladies, should never talk to strangers, for if they should do so, they may well provide dinner for a wolf. I say wolf, but there are various kinds of wolves.