Like Sleeping Beauty, Snow White undergoes a death-like sleep. What purpose does it serve?
The death-like sleep experienced by Snow White serves multiple purposes in the traditional fairy tale. Here are a few possible explanations:
1. Plot progression: Snow White's sleep drives the narrative forward by creating tension and giving other characters a chance to play their roles. It sets the stage for various events, such as the arrival of the prince and the resolution of the story.
2. Symbolism: The sleep can symbolize innocence and vulnerability. Snow White is portrayed as pure and unaffected by the evil queen's schemes. Her slumber represents a suspension of life, protecting her from the queen's malevolence until true love's kiss can awaken her.
3. Moral lesson: The fairy tale teaches the values of kindness and true love. Snow White's sleep encourages characters to act selflessly and work towards her awakening. It emphasizes the importance of compassion and the rewards of virtuous behavior.
To better understand the purpose of this sleep in a specific version of the tale or to explore further interpretations, it is recommended to examine the story in its cultural and historical context or consult literary analyses.