Yeh-Shen: In the Yeh-Shen story, magic is also utilized to help the main character. Yeh-Shen possesses a magical fish, which acts as her protector and grants her wishes. Whenever she is in need, she can call upon the fish and make a wish. This magical element aids Yeh-Shen throughout the story, allowing her to acquire beautiful clothes and attend the feast where she eventually finds her true love.
Algonquin Cinderella: In the Algonquin Cinderella story, magic is used to transform the protagonist's appearance.
Cinderella: In the traditional Cinderella story, magic is primarily associated with the fairy godmother character. As Cinderella faces mistreatment from her stepmother and stepsisters, her fairy godmother appears and uses magic to transform Cinderella's appearance. She turns a pumpkin into a carriage, mice into horses, a rat into a coachman, and Cinderella's rags into a beautiful gown. Additionally, the fairy godmother provides Cinderella with glass slippers, another magical element in the story. These enchanted slippers play a significant role as they fit only Cinderella's feet, leading to her eventual recognition by the prince.
In the Algonquin Cinderella story, magic is used in several ways. First, the Invisible One and his sister possess the power of invisibility, allowing them to hide their true forms from others. This power is a form of magic that plays a crucial role in the story's plot.
Additionally, the sister of the Invisible One tests the potential brides by asking them a question about her brother's possessions, such as the material of his shoulder strap or sled cord. This test is magical in nature, as it allows her to determine if the girls are telling the truth or not. It is implied that the sister possesses some sort of magical ability or knowledge that enables her to discern the truth from falsehoods. Furthermore, after Oochigeaskw is chosen as the bride, the sister of the Invisible One baths her and makes all of her scars disappear. This transformation is a magical act that enhances Oochigeaskw's beauty and prepares her for her new life as the wife of the Invisible One.
Overall, magic is used throughout the story to highlight the supernatural abilities of the characters and drive the narrative forward. It adds an element of wonder and enchantment to the story, making it a classic fairy tale.
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