Contrast as a concept. Oppositions in the old fables and the contemporary stories Cover Image

Kontrast jako koncept. Opozycje w bajkach dawnych i najnowszych
Contrast as a concept. Oppositions in the old fables and the contemporary stories

Author(s): Dorota Bełtkiewicz
Subject(s): Education, Psychology, Studies of Literature
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Jana Kochanowskiego
Keywords: literature; fables; therapeutic stories; fairy-tale therapy; bibliotherapy; contrastive traits; opposing attitudes; contrastive protagonists;

Summary/Abstract: The old fables, as well as the contemporary stories – including the therapeutic ones, use contrast in order to illustrate opposing traits and attitudes. The main characters (animals, plants, some elements of nature, objects, or people) often do not represent only one particular trait, but a peculiar dualism, which is so typically human (for example: the dog lives comfortably, but in captivity; the wolf lives in want, but is free – The Dog and the Wolf; the jellyfish lacks beauty, but stands out as witty, clever and brave – Despite everything… I want to have friends. Matilda, the Jellyfish). The authors of stories indicate which attitude guarantees a greater satisfaction and happiness in life, confirming the readers’ proper conclusion by means of a moral (stated at the beginning or the end of the text) that is often strengthened and expressed straightforwardly. Using parables and appropriately chosen contrasts, they guide the reader to make good decisions and shape correct mindsets.

  • Issue Year: 32/2018
  • Issue No: 32
  • Page Range: 137-156
  • Page Count: 20
  • Language: Polish