first of all – what is a “fairy tale”? A fairy tale is one type of story under the heading of “folk tales.” There are many types of folktales: a tall tale, a cumulative tale, or an animal story. Sometimes, people use the term folktale and fairy tale to mean the same thing. A fairy tale is a folktale, but a folktale is not always a fairytale. A fairytale is usually longer than most folk stories and takes place in the nether realm of far, far away and a long time ago. They often have some sort of royalty involved in the story (including the fairy realm); the main character (s) go on a journey where he/she is tested; they have some sort of magical help along the way; good triumphs over evil; there is a transformation or reward at the end. They usually start with “a long time ago, in a place far away” and end “happily ever after.” The characters and the journey are often metaphors for people and challenges that are universal. Fairy tales are often fractured, but they are not the only folktales that are fractured.
So, what is a fractured fairy tale? It is a fairy or other folk tale that has been modified in such a way as to make us laugh at an unexpected characterization, plot development or contrary point of view. (Information from Fractured Fairytales by Marilynn Kinsella)
Your assignment is to choose a fairy tale and turn it into a fractured fairy tale. You may choose to change a character, setting, part of the plot, or the ending. Your fairy tale should be recognizable but it should be different in some way.
