How dow the characters in a traditional fairy-tale differ to those in the princess bride.
If you haven't read Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty, read them. Then after you have seen the movie Princess Bride, write a list of characteristics of the the main characters. Then you will be able to make valid comparisons.
To understand how the characters in a traditional fairy tale differ from those in "The Princess Bride," we can analyze the characteristics and roles typically found in each.
1. Traditional Fairy Tales:
In traditional fairy tales, the characters often embody archetypes and tend to be less nuanced compared to those in "The Princess Bride." Here's a breakdown of some common character traits:
a. Princess: In fairy tales, princesses are usually portrayed as pure, beautiful, and in need of rescue from a prince. They often lack agency and are defined by their beauty or status.
b. Prince: Princes in fairy tales are brave, valiant, and seek to save the princess from some form of peril. They are often idealized, one-dimensional characters.
c. Villain: Villains in fairy tales are often evil or wicked characters who seek to harm the protagonists. They are typically portrayed without much depth or backstory.
d. Sidekicks: Fairy tales commonly feature sidekicks who aid the main characters. These characters often provide comic relief, serve as helpers, or possess magical powers.
2. "The Princess Bride":
"The Princess Bride" deviates from traditional fairy tales by subverting some of these common character tropes. It injects humor, addresses love, and presents more complex and multi-dimensional characters. Here are some notable differences:
a. Princess Buttercup: Unlike typical princesses, Buttercup shows more agency and resilience. She actively participates in her own rescue and displays wit and determination.
b. Westley (The Man in Black): Westley defies the passive prince archetype. He is a swashbuckling hero who displays courage, intelligence, and a deep love for Buttercup. His character has more depth and complexity than typical fairy tale princes.
c. Prince Humperdinck: The character of Prince Humperdinck showcases a more sinister villain. He is cunning and manipulative, with personal motives beyond simply being evil. This adds layers to his character and enhances the conflict of the story.
d. Inigo Montoya and Fezzik: These sidekick characters in "The Princess Bride" are more developed and have their own personal journeys. Inigo seeks revenge for his father's murder, and Fezzik's gentle nature contrasts with his imposing size, providing an interesting dynamic.
Overall, "The Princess Bride" diverges from traditional fairy tales by giving its characters more depth, complexity, and agency, while also adding humor and self-awareness to the narrative.