Exploring the Unique Fairy Tale Backstories in Once Upon a Time
The television series Once Upon a Time creatively revamps familiar fairy tale characters through innovative storytelling. The central plot revolves around the Evil Queen, who casts a Dark Curse that banishes beloved fairy tale figures to Storybrooke, Maine. The show’s narrative pivots around Emma Swan, the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming, who is fated to lift the curse at the age of 28. Emma’s life changes dramatically when her son, Henry, discovers her. Interestingly, Henry has been adopted by Regina Mills, the Evil Queen in her human form, which sets the stage for a complex familial narrative filled with surprises and unexpected twists.
However, the Evil Queen is not the only character with a redefined identity. Characters such as Marco and Archie Hopper, drawing from the tales of Geppetto and Jiminy Cricket respectively, add depth to the series. Additionally, characters like Ashley Boyd, echoing the story of Cinderella, showcase the diverse adaptations within Once Upon a Time. This series draws from various fairy tales, presenting unique interpretations that enrich character backstories and complexities.
10 Grumpy/Leroy
Disney’s Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs
The seven dwarfs, originally from The Brothers Grimm’s Snow White, were popularized with individual names in Disney’s film. Each dwarf embodies a distinct trait, but Once Upon a Time delves deeper into their origins. For instance, Grumpy was initially known as Dreamy, characterized by optimism and love for a fairy named Nova. His transformative journey reveals the heart-wrenching sacrifices Dreamy makes, resulting in his later embodiment as Grumpy.
Tragically, after rejecting a chance at love for Nova’s future, Dreamy’s heartbreak leads to his newfound identity. The moment Grumpy abandons his mining tool in anger, his essence shifts dramatically, revealing the complexity behind his formerly straightforward persona. However, the series leaves fans wondering about Nova’s fate, as she never reappears after Grumpy’s backstory unfolds.
9 Zelena/The Wicked Witch Of The West
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz By L. Frank Baum
Zelena, the Wicked Witch of the West, emerges as a central antagonist in Season 3B, whose backstory aligns with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, yet introduces significant variations that enhance her character. The revelation that she is Regina’s older half-sister adds layers to both characters, highlighting the stark contrast between their upbringings and ensuing rivalries.
Her jealousy toward Regina and their mother’s choices propel Zelena to plot against her sister, showcasing her as a formidable opponent. Once Upon a Time intricately explores her relationships within Oz and with powerful figures like Glinda, solidifying her role as the most potent antagonist in the series.
8 Cruella De Vil
The Hundred And One Dalmatians By Dodie Smith
In Once Upon a Time, Cruella De Vil is portrayed without the complex backstories common among other characters, embodying pure evil simply due to her inherent darkness, a bold portrayal for a Disney villain. Her character offers a unique perspective as she revels in her wickedness, as captured in her iconic line about embracing darkness.
“Some people struggle not to be drawn into the darkness, but ever since I was a little girl I’ve said: Why not splash in and have fun?”
– Cruella in Once Upon a Time season 4, episode 18, “Sympathy for the De Vil”
Her relationship with the Author (Isaac Heller) adds depth, revealing her manipulative tendencies and making her villainy more compelling without the standard tragic rationale. This makes her portrayal stand out amidst a series filled with tortured characters.
7 Captain Hook/Killian Jones
Peter Pan By J. M. Barrie
Captain Hook, or Killian Jones, captivates viewers with his intriguing backstory. Unlike a typical villain, Hook is not the most dangerous threat in Neverland; rather, his journey unfolds as a tale of loss, betrayal, and transformation. Killian’s shift to piracy stems from a tragic past, exacerbated by family dysfunction and unfortunate events.
Despite being a compelling character, Hook’s narrative often mirrors Regina’s, lacking uniqueness and depth. The show could have further distinguished him through more original storytelling, but he remains a fan favorite due to his charm and complexity.
6 Rumplestiltskin/Mr. Gold
Rumpelstiltskin By The Brothers Grimm
Rumplestiltskin is a multifaceted character, serving various roles across different fairy tales, such as the Beast in Beauty and the Beast and the Crocodile in Peter Pan. This amalgamation of narratives alongside his cunning personality lends Rumplestiltskin a captivating arc throughout the show, particularly in its early seasons.
| Fairy Tale | Character | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Rumpelstiltskin | Rumpelstiltskin | Rumplestiltskin’s initial character origin. |
| Beauty and the Beast | Beast | Belle often called Rumplestiltskin a beast when they first met. |
| Peter Pan | Crocodile | Captain Hook thinks Rumplestiltskin looks like a crocodile because of his Dark One skin. |
| Cinderella | Fairy Godmother | He calls himself Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother after he kills the real one. |
| Up | Carl Fredricksen | He has a heartwarming relationship with Belle. |
5 Regina/The Evil Queen
Snow White By The Brothers Grimm
Regina’s character arc is one of the most profound journeys in Once Upon a Time. The superficial hate she bears for Snow White related to beauty transforms into a rich narrative exploring familial bonds and personal strife. The show intricately unpacks Regina’s troubled relationship with her mother and develops her motives behind seeking vengeance against Snow White.
Despite some inconsistencies regarding her redemption arc, Regina’s growth is palpable. A major narrative pitfall occurs in Season 6, which suggests that her evil nature stems from self-loathing, undermining her complex evolution. Nevertheless, her journey from the Evil Queen to a more nuanced character ultimately shines through, solidifying her as a standout figure in the series.
4 David/Prince Charming
Sleeping Beauty By Charles Perrault
David’s backstory adds considerable richness to his character, transforming him into a heroic figure far beyond traditional portrayals of Prince Charming. Instead of being born into royalty, David’s life begins as the son of impoverished shepherds who make a heartbreaking deal with Rumplestiltskin. His destiny shifts dramatically when he rises to confront a dragon and claim his identity as a prince.
This journey of self-discovery and the tenacity to overcome obstacles creates a multidimensional character that resonates deeply with fans, showcasing the show’s ability to redefine classic fairy tale archetypes.
3 Ursula
The Little Mermaid By Hans Christian Andersen
Although her screen time is limited, Ursula’s backstory in Once Upon a Time offers a compelling take on her character. The series creatively merges elements from both Ariel and Ursula’s narratives, adding depth to her motivations. Ursula, initially forced to use her vocal talents for dark purposes, experiences growth when she gains the opportunity to become human, albeit temporarily.
Her character arc, filled with betrayal, redemption, and complex family ties, embodies the strength of Once Upon a Time in innovating fairy tale tales while maintaining engagement with the audience.
2 Ruby/Little Red Riding Hood
Little Red Riding Hood By Charles Perrault
Ruby’s character in Once Upon a Time presents a refreshing take on the classic Little Red Riding Hood story. Raised by her grandmother, Ruby battles personal demons as she grapples with the darkness that surrounds her existence. Through unexpected revelations, the narrative complicates her journey by introducing her as a shapeshifter, ultimately leading to emotional consequences that reshape her identity.
This innovative twist gives Ruby agency and depth, showcasing the show’s power to challenge and reimagine established narratives in exciting ways.
1 Snow White/Mary Margaret Blanchard
Snow White By The Brothers Grimm
Above all, Snow White’s transformation into a pivotal character is undoubtedly one of the show’s high points. From a one-dimensional Disney princess to a strong, independent warrior, Snow White finds herself at the heart of an expansive narrative. Rather than merely a damsel in distress, she becomes a fierce protagonist equipped to fight the Evil Queen and protect her kingdom.
Her character arc revitalizes interest in Snow White, proving her formidable presence and active participation in her fate, culminating in her status as a beloved hero showcasing the strength and resilience essential to Once Upon a Time.
For those interested in exploring these enchanting stories, Once Upon a Time is available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
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