DLTK's Fairy Tales Activities
Snow White and the Seven Dwarves
Snow White is a European fairy tale -- the version we're most familiar with is the one collected by the Grimm's Fairy Tale version (Fairy Tales collected into a book by the Brothers Grimm
Snow White Crafts:
Forest animal crafts to go with the story (Snow White's animal friends):
Snow White Creative Writing Worksheets:
Snow White Printable Resources:
Snow White Puzzle Worksheets:
more crafts for Snow White:
The History of "Snow White"
"Snow White" is a classic fairy tale best known from the version published by the Brothers Grimm. The story of a beautiful princess, her wicked stepmother, and the seven dwarfs has captivated audiences for generations and has become one of the most famous fairy tales in Western literature.
Early Origins
- Brothers Grimm: The most famous version of "Snow White" was collected by the Brothers Grimm and published in their collection Grimm's Fairy Tales in 1812. Their version is titled "Sneewittchen" ("Little Snow White") and includes the familiar elements of the evil queen, the magic mirror, the seven dwarfs, and the poisoned apple.
- Italian Roots: Some scholars believe that the story of "Snow White" has earlier roots in European folklore. An Italian tale called "The Young Slave" from Giambattista Basile's Pentamerone (1634) features similar themes of jealousy and beauty, though with significant differences in plot and characters.
- Medieval Influences: The story also draws on medieval European legends, such as tales of stepmothers and magical transformations, reflecting the cultural concerns and social norms of the time.
Plot Summary
In the Grimm version, Snow White is a princess whose stepmother, the queen, is envious of her beauty. The queen orders Snow White's death, but she escapes and finds refuge with seven dwarfs. The queen eventually tricks Snow White into eating a poisoned apple, but she is later revived by a prince. The story concludes with the defeat of the wicked queen.
Themes and Interpretations
- Jealousy and Vanity: The story explores themes of jealousy and vanity, embodied by the queen's obsession with being the "fairest of them all."
- Innocence and Goodness: Snow White represents purity and innocence, contrasting with the malice of her stepmother.
- Redemption and Justice: The tale often ends with the queen's downfall and Snow White's triumph, emphasizing themes of justice and redemption.
Modern Adaptations
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Disney's "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937):
- Walt Disney's animated film, released in 1937, is one of the most famous adaptations. It was the first full-length animated feature film and played a significant role in popularizing the story for modern audiences. The film introduced iconic characters like the seven dwarfs with distinct personalities, such as Dopey and Grumpy.
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Literature and Film:
- "Snow White" has inspired numerous books, movies, and television series, each offering unique interpretations. Notable adaptations include the film "Snow White and the Huntsman" (2012), which presents a darker and more action-oriented version of the tale.
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Cultural Impact:
- The tale's motifs and characters have been referenced in various media, from songs and plays to visual arts, reflecting its enduring influence on popular culture.
Legacy
"Snow White" remains a beloved fairy tale, celebrated for its timeless story and universal themes. Its adaptability and resonance with audiences of all ages ensure that it continues to be a significant part of cultural and literary traditions.