The Cinderella Stereotype: A Comparative Study of Love in a Fallen City and Cinderella

Abstract

This study examines the Cinderella complex through a comparative analysis of Eileen Chang’s Love in a Fallen City and Charles Perrault’s Cinderella. The Cinderella complex, coined by Colette Dowling, describes women’s hidden fear of independence and their desire for male rescue. Using Vladimir Propp’s narratological framework, the study deconstructs both narratives, revealing common functions such as absentation, interdiction, complicity, and marriage. These functions underscore deep-seated patriarchal values where female characters are portrayed as passive and dependent on male saviors. Despite Love in a Fallen City being praised for its feminist themes, it replicates the Cinderella stereotype, illustrating women’s fear of autonomy, romanticization of rescue, and subordination to men. This research is crucial for uncovering persistent gender stereotypes and contributes to feminist discourse by challenging traditional portrayals of women in the literature. It offers insights into the cultural and historical contexts of these stories and promotes critical thinking about the narratives that shape societal norms. Ultimately, this study advocates for greater gender equality by highlighting the need for literature that portrays women as autonomous and empowered. Through this comparative analysis, the research fosters a reevaluation of traditional gender roles and advances understanding of female empowerment in literary works.