George R.R. Martins Approach to Fairy Tales and Their Modern Interpretations
Introduction
George R.R. Martin (GRRM) is renowned for his grim and complex narrative style that stands in contrast to the more sanitized and wish-fulfilling fairy tales of yesteryear. This article explores how GRRM's work reflects on and often subverts traditional fairy tales. We also discuss the tension between newer and older interpretations of these stories and how they influence his own storytelling.
Understanding Fairy Tales
The term 'fairy tales' is often associated with stories that have happy endings and enchanted elements. However, the original, pre-Disney versions of these tales were not always so saccharine. They served to entertain while imparting moral guidance, and often contained darker elements that were not always wish fulfillment. Traditional fairy tales were cautionary tales that prepared children for the harsh realities of life.
Examples of Darker Fairy Tales
Little Red Riding Hood: In earlier versions, Little Red Riding Hood is eaten by the wolf and does not survive the encounter. Cinderella: The stepsisters mutilate their feet to wear the glass slipper, symbolizing their destructive nature and lack of self-respect. The Little Mermaid: The mermaid sacrifices her life to avoid killing her prince, ultimately committing suicide. Sleeping Beauty: The prince violates the sleeping princess during her revival. Snow White: The tale features necrophilia and sexual assault, and the wicked queen dies from dancing in hot-iron shoes, mirroring the violence she enacted. Rapunzel: In some versions, the prince abandons Rapunzel once she has been rescued from her tower. Hansel and Gretel: Older versions often included elements of cannibalism as a cautionary tale.GRRM's Take on Fairy Tales
George R.R. Martin has expressed skepticism towards 'happily ever after.' In fact, his famous quote about J.R.R. Tolkien’s omission of tax policies demonstrates his distrust of simplistic, idealized story endings. GRRM appears to resist the gentler, more comfortable version of fairy tales, opting instead to deconstruct and challenge these narratives. His narratives are often grounded in darkness, complexity, and realism.
Challenges and Inspiration
William Faulkner, whose quote suggests that 'the past is never dead. It's not even past,' resonates with GRRM’s approach. Many of his stories delve into the intricate and often brutal past that shapes the characters of A Song of Ice and Fire. GRRM's work is a blend of historical detail, psychological complexity, and social commentary, which often mirrors the darker and more nuanced fairy tales of old.
The Tension Between Old and New
The tension between the old and new versions of fairy tales can be seen in the evolution of Star Wars. Early Star Wars, with its farm boy, old wizard, and happy ending, can be compared to the traditional Disney fairy tales. In contrast, the The Last Jedi and Rogue One offer more contemporary, grittier stories, which align more with GRRM's literary style.
Modern Interpretations and Their Impact
When it comes to GRRM's own work, his A Song of Ice and Fire series is a prime example of how he interprets fairy tales in a modern context. The series is a dark, complex, and morally ambiguous narrative that subverts many of the tropes and endings commonly found in fairy tales. This approach is not a call to abandon storytelling but to broaden the range of narratives and to challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths.
Conclusion
George R.R. Martin, by stripping away the deceitful happy endings and delving into the darker, more realistic aspects of stories, presents a more complex and multifaceted approach to fairy tales. His work invites readers to engage with the harsh realities of life and to question the comfort of simplistic story endings. In doing so, GRRM challenges not only the audience but also the very notion of what constitutes a ‘fairy tale.’