The verse fairy tale the dead princess and the seven knights by a. Pushkin and Snow White by the brothers Grimm: a comparative study

Abstract

Drawing on the shared motif of a beautiful princess who is persecuted and ultimately rescued, the verse fairy tale The Dead Princess and the Seven Knights by A. Pushkin and Snow White by the Brothers Grimm clearly reflect processes of cultural transmission and artistic creation based on a common source-European folk literature. While the Grimm tale bears a strong mythological imprint and embodies the moral ethos of German folk tradition, foregrounding the conflict between good and evil, Pushkin, in appropriating this motif, renews and transforms it in accordance with Russian spirit and aesthetics. The poet endows the narrative with a lyrical and tragic resonance deeply rooted in Slavic folklore, bringing a “once upon a time” story closer to modern readers by engaging with urgent issues confronting Russian society of his time.