Welcome to an exploration into the many different Cinderella stories that exist!
Cinderella stories are considered by many to be folk tales. A folk tale is a legend or story handed down from generation to generation, usually by oral retelling. Folk tales often explain something that happens in nature or to express a truth about life, such as a lesson to be learned. Most folk tales were written for adults, but now are enjoyed by nearly everyone.
Most folk tales include:
Cinderella is one of the most well-known stories around the world. The themes from Cinderella appear in many similar stories in a variety of cultures. There may be over 1,500 versions.
The tale always centers around a kind heroine who is treated badly after the death of her mother. The father is either dead or absent depending upon the story. A magical person or item usually helps the heroine prevail and achieve her greatest wish at the end of the story. Usually these tales include an enlightenment touched off by an article of clothing (in most cases a shoe) that causes the heroine to be recognized for her true kindness.
The Cinderella folk tales in this WebQuest might include stories you've heard, and maybe a few you didn't know existed.
Well, let's get started on our journey. Click on "Task" to see what you need to do.