with Sharon Burke
Disney's 2015 live action remake of Cinderella grossed over $500 million worldwide. Cinderella tales arise in many parts of the world including China, Greece, India, Malaysia and the Middle East. Many popular historical romances published today use a Cinderella theme. Even the capable romantic heroine who knows her own mind has elements of a Cinderella-type romance in her contemporary love story.
Why is this the case? What is it about the Cinderella tale that makes it so popular and enduring? How has this story survived, and remained a popular theme of so many romance novels, in this age of feminism?
Why do we love or hate the Cinderella story?
Much of the contemporary dislike for the Cinderella story, arises because it is perceived as being about the rescue of Cinderella – the prince rescues Cinderella from her stepmother and a life of deprivation. The modern success of the Cinderella story is attributed to a different mindset. People who love the story frequently view it as not being so much about rescue as about change and hope – there is a “happy ever after” in which we can all believe.
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https://pixabay.com/en/germany-bavaria-1014376/
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My favourite contemporary Cinderella story is
Girl on a Plane by Cassandra O'Leary. This fast-paced romance between assertive Sinead and overloaded, time-poor Gabriel gives us a hero and heroine who both need to change and overcome personal difficulties. With brilliant comedy and unexpected plot twists both protagonists grow and achieve their happy ever after.
What is your favourite Cinderella romance?
Are you a fan of the classic tale or does it annoy you?
Do you think the story is about change and hope?
I love to love: I am going to the ballet with my Dad tonight.
I love to laugh: I was so sorry to hear John Clarke died. I have been a fan of “Clarke and Dawe” for several years.
I love to learn: We just returned from a trip to Tasmania during which we took many walks and learnt about the history behind the places we visited.
