If the Shoe Fits: A Cultural Analysis of Cinderella

"Cinderella" is one of the most recognizable stories of all time. Universally beloved and the inspiration for countless retellings, she has touches hearts across the world with her goodness and kindness. This story has found a home in many different countries; over 400 different "Cinderella" stories have been documented across the world and throughout history. This paper recounts three examples of a "Cinderella" story, found in France, Germany, and Native American tribes in Canada. Through detailed analysis, it will look at the history of fairy tales, the elements of a "Cinderella" story, the cultural influences on the stories and the influence of the stories themselves. Along with a look into the symbolism in this tale, this paper will explore these themes to answer the question "What do fairy tales teach us?"