Comparing Rapunzel And Gothel In The Brothers Grimm

5. Research Question and Hypothesis

Research Question: How has the representation of women changed through the characters of Rapunzel and Gothel in the Brothers Grimm version of the tale, Rapunzel compared to Walt Disney’s adaptation and can these representations be explained through Deleuze and Guattari’s theories on war machines and desire-producing machines?

Hypothesis: The changes reflected in the female characters of the narrative Rapunzel suggest that women have advanced or rather progressed in society as indicated in the progressive state of Rapunzel herself, however, these changes are still limited or restricted as shown through the overall stagnant portrayal in the character of Gothel in both literary narratives. These portrayals

Furthermore, it is a perpetual and continuous debate that encourages new or re-invented viewpoints. By examining the issue of feminism through fairy tales and equating it to Deleuze and Guattari’s theories on war machines and desire-producing machines, a new dimension is added to the debate which may allow for new ideas or viewpoints to be explored.

7. Research Aim and Objectives

Extensive research has been conducted and offered around the issue of gender roles within fairy tales as well as the negative by-products produced through the reinforcement of stereotypical society ideals and concepts when addressing, discussing and portraying women. However, minimal attention is paid to the progressive state of the princess versus the regressive state of the ‘evil’ witch.

As previously discussed, this research study looks to investigate the role or rather representation of women through the medium of children’s fairy tales to uncover and explore how these representations and ideals may have evolved and changed through the ages. It is suggested that cinema and popular culture continues to act as a medium of social

Secondly, by addressing the issue of feminism and gender roles through films and fairy tales by focusing on the specific narrative of Rapunzel through the Brother Grimm’s and Disney’s interpretations. Thirdly, linking these ideas to the backdrop of the study, the characters of Rapunzel and Gothel. This will allow for an analysis to be conducted on the similarities and differences between the characters. Moreover, an analysis of the character allows for the exploration of Deleuze and Guattari’s theories. Ultimately, through the research conducted offer an educated conclusion as to if the character of Rapunzel changed through the various adaptations and highlight how these changes may reflect the difference in societal perception of