The Stepmother Stereotype

The Stepmother Stereotype

by, Diana B. Thompson

In fairytales, stepparents are evil!  In olden days, when resources were few, a stepmother paid her allegiance to her children by denying resources to the stepchild. Stepmothers were unattractive, or beautiful with a sinister side.

CinderSilly's stepmother is different.  We see in the 1st illustration that life is good. CinderSilly is a playful part of the family.  When the family runs out of money, the conflict begins. CinderSilly and her stepmother have opposing world views. The stepmother believes that life is a chore, while CinderSilly believes life is just what you make it. Her search for power is reflected through the illustrations with point of her finger. This stepmother doesn't fit the typical stereotype. She isn't evil. She is fundamentally unhappy.  Money had insulated her for a time. When the money runs out, she is unable to see the opportunity beyond the crisis. Misery loves company, so the stepmother gives CinderSilly a series of difficult tasks to prove her point. CinderSilly overcomes each obstacle.  Her positive point of view wins is the day, and points the way.