This dissertation examines the effects of the fairy tale Snow White, classified under ATU 709, and its various adaptations based on the original versions by the Brothers Grimm from 1812 and 1857, on the psychosocial development of children. In both versions, the fairy tale Snow White offers a wealth of symbols, moral messages and archetypes that are crucial for the reader's understanding of the world, values and social norms. Particular emphasis will be placed on analysing these symbols and messages and how these elements of the fairy tale manifest themselves in the reader's perception of the world and themselves.
In addition to the literary foundations of the Brothers Grimm, the thesis also includes an analysis of the adaptation of the fairy tale in the form of the 1937 animated film Snow White produced by Walt Disney. This adaptation, which has become one of the best-known interpretations of the fairy tale, introduces some important changes and reinterpretations of the original story. This thesis compares the two media, focussing on how these differences in narrative style, visual presentation and delivery affect the psychological and moral development of the reader. The analysis also examines how these media interpret and convey the values and archetypes of the original fairy tale and how they are transmitted to the audience in different contexts.
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