Reading Response 3

Catherine Orenstein writes in her article, "Dances with Wolves--Little Red Riding Hood's Long Walk in the Woods," of the social messages contained in fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood. She uses examples of how this one particular story has evolved in time and geographic location to illustrate the use of stories as lessons or guides. She explains the symbolism, varying perspectives and different authors to explain how these stories perpetuate or iniate ideas about gender, especially that of women.

In the first written telling of the fairy tale by Charles Perrault, Orenstein explains the color red chosen for Little Red Riding Hood as a symbolic representation for scandal. She asserts that dressing the only heroine in red at this time would have been immediately understood by the audience. Orenstein insists that Perrault used this story as a warning to girls to stay pure. This is reflective of what was important to people at this time. When girls' chastity was a selling point for marriage, it was important to convey this to young women in any way possible.

In another version of this story written by the Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, the lesson transforms into one about obedience, and the idea that girls need a savior in the form of a man is enforced. From this perspective, a woodsman is added into the end of the story in order to save Little Red Riding Hood and give her another chance. In Victorian Europe, obediance and spiritual clarity were more important components of growth taking priority over or including chastity.

In feminist retellings of this fairy tale, Little Red is often a match for the wolf not needing a man to come save her. These ideas relay to girls that they can be strong and independent. In one story, Little Red Riding Hood actually kills the wolf via a 9mm Beretta. She also describes a few movies that reflect the script of Little Red Riding Hood but give the heroine more power and ability to defend herself negating the former meanings of the tale. This sends a new message to audiences about girls.

Orenstein's explanation of different techniques employed to convey these messages made the metaphors obvious. Orenstein also illustrated effectively that the difference in era can make a difference in what type of message is being sent. Overall, Orenstein does a great job of emphasizing the importance of social messages through common stories.