Reimagined Classic Fairy Tales: Disabled Women Take the Lead
The noble king and his queen had longed for a child, particularly one with a heart as pure as snow. After years of waiting, their prayers were answered with the birth of a daughter, Snow White. However, tragedy struck as the queen passed away soon after, leaving the king to raise their daughter alone.
As Snow White grew, she exhibited a gentle nature and spent her days surrounded by the beauty of nature, finding solace in the company of plants and birds. Yet, her happiness was short-lived as she began to lose her hearing at a young age.
Concerned for his daughter’s well-being, the king remarried, hoping to provide her with the care she needed. However, Snow White’s new stepmother proved to be unkind, using her disability to manipulate and mistreat her.
Isolated and mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, Snow White longed for companionship and understanding. Despite her efforts to connect with others, she faced ridicule and discrimination due to her deafness.
Feeling trapped and misunderstood, Snow White found herself fleeing from her oppressive home after a particularly harsh encounter with her stepmother. Lost and frightened, she stumbled upon a quaint cottage in the forest, where she sought refuge.
Inside the cottage, Snow White discovered a haven of peace and comfort, inhabited by seven kind-hearted individuals. Despite her initial apprehension, she found herself welcomed by the inhabitants, who showed her kindness and compassion.
As Snow White shared her story with her newfound friends, she found solace in their understanding and acceptance. For the first time, she felt truly seen and valued for who she was, deafness and all.
In the company of her new companions, Snow White found the strength to confront her past and embrace her identity. Together, they forged a bond built on mutual respect and support, proving that true friendship knows no bounds.
Through her journey, Snow White learned the power of resilience and the importance of finding allies who accept and celebrate her differences. In the face of adversity, she discovered her own inner strength and the beauty of acceptance.
Repurposed article originally published in Scroll.in
