In the real Brothers Grimm Cinderella story, there are some darker elements compared to the more sanitized versions. For example, the stepsisters' attempts to fit into the glass slipper are quite gruesome. It reflects the harshness of the time. Also, Cinderella's patience and her unwavering belief in good are emphasized throughout the story.
The end of the Grimm Brothers' Cinderella story is quite satisfying. Cinderella marries the prince. Her stepmother and stepsisters, who had been so mean to her, get their comeuppance. The story shows that good prevails in the end. Cinderella's kindness is rewarded with a happy marriage, while her stepfamily's cruelty is not overlooked. It's a classic ending that sends a positive message about fairness and the rewards of virtue.
The main elements include Cinderella herself, a kind - hearted girl. There are her cruel stepmother and stepsisters who treat her badly. The fairy godmother is also a key element, who uses magic to help Cinderella go to the ball. And of course, the glass slipper which is the crucial item for the prince to find Cinderella.
One main difference is the level of darkness. The Grimm version has more cruel and harsh elements. In modern adaptations, these are often toned down. For example, the stepsisters' actions are made less extreme in modern versions.
Well, the original story has a stronger moral tone. Cinderella's patience and kindness are more emphasized in the face of extreme cruelty from her stepfamily. In modern versions, there's often more focus on the magic and the grandeur of the ball. Also, in the Grimm version, the fairy godmother figure is not as glamorous as in modern takes. She's more of a magical helper in a more primitive sense.
The Brothers Grimm collected the stories by traveling around Germany and listening to people. They were interested in the oral traditions of the common folk. They would visit villages and small towns, and sit with the locals to hear their tales. They were careful to note down not just the stories but also the way they were told, with all the unique expressions and dialects. This way, they managed to compile a large collection of real folk stories that became known as the Brothers Grimm stories.
In the original Grimm's Cinderella, she is depicted as a very patient and gentle character. Despite being constantly mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, she doesn't become bitter. She is a symbol of perseverance, quietly doing her chores and hoping for a better day. When she gets the chance to go to the ball, she shows her grace and elegance. Overall, she is a character that represents the good that can survive in a cruel environment.