"Snow White" and "The Paper Bag Princess": A Comparative Study on the Portrayal of Female Characters in Children's Picture Books from a Feminist Perspective

Abstract

This study aims to compare and analyze the differences in female character portrayal between the classic children's picture book "Snow White" and the modern one "The Paper Bag Princess" from a feminist perspective, providing references for more contemporary and diverse female role modeling. Utilizing comparative research, textual analysis, and survey methods, the study explores the differences in female characters between the two books, analyzes the socio-cultural factors influencing these portrayals, examines the impact of these images on children's gender concepts, and offers suggestions for the re-creation of female characters in contemporary children's picture books from a feminist standpoint. The findings reveal that Snow White in "Snow White" is characterized by passivity and dependency, whereas Princess Elizabeth in "The Paper Bag Princess" embodies independence and bravery. Surveys conducted among children aged 3-6 and early childhood educators show that modern, independent, and brave female images in picture books are more conducive to fostering gender equality concepts in children. Children's picture books can serve as an important medium for gender equality education, offering references for educators and creators in gender equality education and creation.