Unit 2 Discussion - Princess and the Goblin PDF

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Princess and the Goblin...

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How does this novel compare to the traditional fairy tales in its depiction of gender roles? Is Irene a typical passive maiden? To what extent is she given independence and agency? Traditional fairy tales like Sleeping Beauty resemble parts of the story in The Princess and the Goblin; however, princess Irene takes on a much more active role in her own and other characters’ fates. Usually, traditional fairy tales rely on a male hero or prince charming to save a helpless, passive female character, but princess Irene is self-driven by her morals and faith. Through her faith, she shows bravery and selflessness to save others, even if that means putting herself in danger. This is demonstrated when Irene is clearing the rocks to help Curdie: “She was dismayed at the very idea, but, losing no time, set to work with a will; and with aching back, and bleeding fingers and hands, she worked on, sustained by the pleasure of seeing the heap slowly diminish and begin to show itself on the opposite side of the fire.” It is rare, especially for a young princess, to have such a physical task in saving someone, a task that’s often reserved for men in stories. Therefore, Irene is not a typical, passive maiden and her personality doesn’t align with female gender roles frequently seen in traditional fairy tales. Additionally, Curdie (less obviously) breaks traditional stereotypes in male roles. His primary weapon isn’t his brute strength or fighting abilities, but rather his annoying rhymes and strategy of stepping on the goblins’ feet. Also, at the end of the story, when the goblins plan on capturing the princess, he doesn’t necessarily save the princess; the princess’ great-great-grandmother does. However, the princess directly saves him when he is in danger. Princess Irene does control much of her own story, although her independence and agency are restricted. Her status gives her some authority over the adults around her, but with that status she becomes bound to more rules that aim to protect her; she must sacrifice part of her independence and freedom. The effect of these rules is evident when we’re told, “...the little princess had never seen the sky at night. They were much too afraid of the goblins to let her out of the house then, even in company with ever so many attendants”. This overprotection prevents the princess, from a young age, from making many of her own decisions; she is shielded from reality. Decisions are made for her to protect her from the truth about goblins. Even at her current age in the story, her actions, where she goes and who she forgives are all influenced by her grandmother. Consequently, she lacks independence and agency throughout her life....