Asian Origins of Cinderella: The Zhuang Storyteller of Guangxi

• Issue: Volume 25, Number 2
• Author(s): Fay Beauchamp
• Article: View PDF | Download PDF
• Citation: http://journal.oraltradition.org/issues/25ii/beauchamp

Abstract

The acceptance and understanding of the Asian origins of the “Cinderella” story should replace the widely held belief that the story is fundamentally Western or universal. The Zhuang, an ethnic group at the intersection of China and Vietnam, combined ideas from their own traditions and experiences with motifs from Hindu and Buddhist narratives circulating in their area during the Tang Dynasty, and should be credited with creating this subversive, virginal, talented, and compassionate heroine.

eCompanion

Fishponds outside Guilin, Guangxi Province.

Photo by Fay Beauchamp, November, 2007

A niche with a statue identified as a Tang Dynasty Guanyin.

Photo by Fay Beauchamp, November, 2007

“Pond of Mercy” where small red fish are currently released to acquire good luck.

Photo by Fay Beauchamp, November, 2007

Amulets bought on the steps leading up to the Yongshuo terraced rice paddies.

Photo by Fay Beauchamp, November, 2007

Terraced rice paddies in Yangshuo.

Photo by Fay Beauchamp, November, 2007

Two historic lakes within Nanning.

Photo by Fay Beauchamp, November, 2007>

Fish at Dragon Pond.

Photo by Fay Beauchamp, November, 2007

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