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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where are the main characters sent as a solution?

2. What psychological implications are presented in this story?

3. Snow White's step-mother is jealous of what about Snow White?

4. What food is related to this particular fairy tale?

5. In the end, what did the characters take as a prize?

Short Essay Questions

1. What examples are given by Bettelheim in regards to oral fixation and the two stories?

2. What is the moral involved with the children eating the gingerbread house?

3. What is the reason that the number three is significant in fairy tales?

4. Why do some cultures insist on outlawing fairy tales?

5. What is ironic about outlawing fairy tales and the attitudes of the Victorian age?

6. What is the underlying moral of the story?

7. How does Bettelheim separate the Oedipus Complex between boys and girls?

8. Why is the mother seen as the villain in the story even though both parents have agreed on a solution?

9. Describe the realistic beginning of "Hansel and Gretel."

10. What is the result of this change? How do the children view their mother?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although the Oedipus Complex is often thought to be purely sexual, Bettelheim asserts that this is not true. Explain the difference between the girls' and boys' views regarding this complex in relation to the father figure. How is the father viewed and treated by boys and girls? What is the major difference? How is a father most likely to respond to each? How might you respond in a similar situation? What is the best way to handle this phase of a child's life?

Essay Topic 2

Bettelheim addresses the "Pleasure Principle Versus Reality Principle." Discuss this principle and its purpose. One tale referred to in the text is the story of the Ant and the Grasshopper. Explain Bettelheim's insights regarding the principle to this particular fable. Also relate the author's thoughts on the principle in relation to The Three Little Pigs. Compare and contrast the two stories and how the principle applies to each. Which is most effective?

Essay Topic 3

Benevolence is one recurring subject in the text. The author discussed how many characters and fairy tales lead a child to believe that there is always a benevolent force that will come to his aid. Additionally, it is through strength, fortitude and perhaps the intervention of a benevolent force that allows the hero to prevail and for the characters live happily ever after. Discuss benevolence. What could be seen as a benevolent force in your life? What are the moral and religious connotations involved in the presence of a benevolent force? How might it affect a child without a spiritual or religious upbringing? Would it be as effective? Does the presence of a benevolent force in the story bring hope or unrealistic expectations?

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