Abstract

Background and Thesis

Folklore is interwoven into culture as being integral to identity, and continues to affect our identity as we mature. This idea of folklore affecting identity is best seen in the folk story of Beauty and the Beast and its own evolution from a tale for young girls, into a multi-million dollar industry. However, to understand the effect this story has on cultural norms and ideals, there must be examination of elements present in the origins of this story, namely: how certain traditions create and confirm identity; the encoding of cultural values; and integration of the macabre into works of fiction.

Research: Intro

Traditions & Identity

Creation and Confirmation of
Cultural Values

Research: Welcome

Everywhere in the United States, references to Beauty and the Beast permeate through the culture. Yet this story has undergone transformations that reflect the cultural values of different eras. At the same time, those transformations reinforce those values. First written in France by Madame Villeneuve as an edification for young girls to prepare them for marriage this story slowly shifted its emphasis from marriage and duty, to love and ideals.

Research: Quote

Culture & Values

Encoding Beliefs

Research: Welcome

In the United States, the story of Beauty and the Beast has transcended the bounds of books, and has become integrated in very many aspects of modern society. According to van Gennep, the application of betrothal and marriage is one aspect of culture that is "an essentially social act" that can be claimed to be the ultimate outcome of the story of Beauty and the Beast.

The main characters in this story really do help to reinforce Beauty and the Beast as cultural standards of love overcoming all challenges. This idea of love beyond the notion of duty was encoded by the focus of the story being on the process of falling in love.

Research: Quote

Fiction & Macabre

The Integration of "monsters" into stories

Research: Welcome

Without history, fiction would have no basis. Beauty and the Beast is no exception. The name of Petrus Gonsalvus is one that is at first unfamiliar. This man was the subject of awe and respect in the court of France in the 1500s, not for anything less than a condition known as hypertrichosis. He was considered to be exotic, a 'monster' taken from his natural habitat and fashioned into a learned member of the court of France. A celebrity of his time, his legacy lived on beyond him, becoming the real life inspiration behind the monster in Beauty and the Beast.

Research: Quote