In the clever daughter adapted from a Czech folktale, why does the magistrate use a riddle to decide the case?

the magistrate used a riddle to decide the case because the farmer denied he own dept and the sheapered coundnt prove the situation so the magistrate decided on an unusal solution which was the riddle

The magistrate uses a riddle to decide the case in "The Clever Daughter" because he wants to test the intelligence and cleverness of the people involved. By using a riddle, the magistrate hopes to identify the person who can solve it, demonstrating their quick wit and ability to think critically. This allows him to determine the true culprit or the most intelligent person in the story. Additionally, using a riddle adds an element of fairness to the decision-making, as it provides an equal opportunity for all parties involved to present their solutions and prove their innocence or intelligence.

The magistrate uses a riddle to decide the case in the clever daughter adapted from a Czech folktale because riddles are often employed in folktales and traditional stories as a way to test someone's intelligence, wit, and problem-solving abilities. In the story, the magistrate wants to determine which of the two sisters is truly the clever one and deserving of the riches left behind by their father.

Using a riddle allows the magistrate to evaluate the sisters' critical thinking skills and their ability to think outside the box. Riddles typically require the person hearing them to analyze the question, think creatively, and come up with an unexpected solution. By challenging the sisters with a riddle, the magistrate can identify the daughter who displays exceptional intelligence and resourcefulness.

The use of a riddle also adds an element of intrigue and suspense to the story. It creates a sense of challenge and competition between the two sisters, as they must race against time to figure out the answer and prove their cleverness. Moreover, incorporating riddles into folktales helps preserve cultural traditions and serves as a form of entertainment for the audience.