Snow White Uncloaked: Unraveling the Fascinating Differences between the 1937 Classic Film and the Original Fairy Tale
Delve behind the cinematic veil to explore the captivating contrasts between the beloved 1937 Disney classic, Snow White, and the original Brothers Grimm fairy tale. Uncover unexpected plot diversions, astonishing character modifications and surprising thematic alternatives as you traverse the crossroads of tradition and imagination. Are you ready? Step with us into the narrative forest – and beware of misleading bread crumbs along the way.
The Origins of Snow White
The tale of Snow White that many are familiar with today, primarily springs from the 1937 animated film ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,’ produced by Walt Disney. This enchanting rendition, however, bears marked differences from its source material — ‘Snow White’ by the Brothers Grimm. Originally published in 1812 in their collection ‘Children’s and Household Tales’ (Grimms’ Fairy Tales), the tale, much like its titular heroine, has undergone substantial transformation in the Disney adaptation.
Snow White’s Character
From Passive Maiden to Active Heroine
In the original Grimm tale, Snow White is relatively passive, confined to the domestic scene and in a perpetual state of peril. However, in the Disney 1937 version, Snow White’s character is elevated to show a more active, resilient, and hopeful character who is able to take control of her destiny.
The Evil Queen
A Shift from Petty to Mighty
The villainous figure of the Evil Queen is also significantly amplified in the Disney adaptation. In the fairy tale, the Queen is driven by petty jealousy over Snow White’s beauty. Alternatively, the 1937 film portrays the Queen as a mighty sorceress enveloped by a dark magic that facilitates her villainy.
Role of The Huntsman and the “Deathly” Corset
Excluded Elements and Addition of Romance
Interestingly, the Disney version excludes some elements from the original fairy tale. For instance, the original Brothers Grimm tale has the Queen attempt to kill Snow White thrice before succeeding. The attempts include lacing Snow White’s corset too tightly, a plot element
Additionally, the film introduces the Huntsman as a sympathetic character with a romantic interest in Snow White. This element is nowhere to be found in the Grimm version.
Final Showdown and Punishment
A Dramatic Patch-up and Divine Retribution
The ending of the two versions differs dramatically. In the Disney film, the Queen meets her end by way of a convenient lightning bolt that sends her tumbling off a cliff. In the fairy tale, the Queen is invited to Snow White’s wedding where she’s forced to dance in red hot iron shoes until she drops dead — a righteous end that aligns with the Grimm Brothers’ penchant for divine retribution.
An Overview: Key Differences between the 1937 Film and the Original Fairy Tale
| Grimm’s Snow White | Disney’s Snow White (1937) |
| Passive protagonist | Active, resilient protagonist |
| Petty, vain queen | Mighty sorceress queen |
| Repetitive assassination attempts | Single assassination attempt |
| No romantic interest for the huntsman | Introduced romantic subplot |
| Dramatic retribution for the queen | Quick, less dramatic end for the queen |
Conclusion
While both versions of Snow White offer their unique charm and lessons, the stark contrasts between them underline the fascinating dynamism of storytelling. From character deviations to plot amendments, these differences highlight how narratives can be reinterpreted, offering new perspectives and relevance to changing times. In the heart of the deep, shadowed forest that is ‘Snow White,’ both the original fairy tale and the 1937 classic film beckon you to explore their distinctive narrative trails.