Rapunzel - And Other Fair Maidens in Very Tall Towers

Origins of Fairy Tales from Around the World #8

by Amelia Carruthers

Rapunzel - Origins of the Fairy Tale from around the World' contains seven different versions of the 'Rapunzel' story. It includes an in-depth introduction to the fairy tale genre itself, as well as the folkloric provenance of 'Rapunzel'. It encompasses 'Petrosinella' by Giambattista Basile, 'Rapunzel' by the Brothers Grimm, 'Prunella' by Andrew Lang, the 'Legend of Saint Barbara' and the tale of 'Rúdábeh' from the Persian epic, 'The Shahmaneh'. What is a fairy tale? The 'Origins of Fairy Tales from around the World' series helps to answer this question, by showcasing the amazing breath and diversity involved in classic fairy tales. It focuses on the unusual phenomenon that the same tales, with only minor variations, appear again and again in different cultures - across time and geographical space. Traditionally told as short stories for children, and for adults too, these popular fairy tales will be sure to delight both young and old. Beautifully illustrated, these story books combine the best story-telling, with the best art-work, in order that the two may be fully appreciated.

Genres: Fantasy

94 pages, Hardcover

First published September 24, 2015

Reviews

[Caitlin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read for the introductory essay. I have enjoyed some of this series’ analyses more than others. This was one I found a bit lacking; it discussed nothing of the essence of Rapunzel ultimately being about a mother trying to preserve her daughter’s innocence and virginity, when shedding both are inevitable for a young woman’s growth. The story of Saint Barbara seemed an unusual inclusion in this anthology.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rapunzel and Other Fair Maidens In Very Tall Towers Review
By Amelia Carruthers
Standalone
5 stars/ 5

Quotes:

Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair!

Synopsis:

A collection of seven different versions of the Rapunzel story from around the world.