The Many Versions of ‘What Did the Wolf Do with Granny’

In the classic fairy tale, the story of Little Red Riding Hood and the wolf’s interaction with her grandmother has taken on many variations over time. From being eaten to being hidden in a cupboard, the outcome of Granny’s encounter with the wolf can vary greatly depending on the version of the tale.

Origins and Versions

The story of Little Red Riding Hood can be traced back over hundreds of years, with some scholars suggesting that it originated as early as the 11th century. The tale has evolved through various iterations and cultures, with researchers delving into the rich history of the narrative.

A researcher interviewed that uncovered the wide origins of the Little Red Riding Hood story can be found here. The original paper, focusing on the phylogeny of the tale, is available in the journal PLoS One here. This research highlights the numerous versions that have emerged over time, each adding its unique twist to the familiar narrative.

The Wolf’s Actions

While the common theme across many versions is the deceitful wolf, the outcome for Granny differs widely. In some tales, the wolf:

Eats Granny alive. Kills and eats her. Stuffs her into a cupboard or other concealed space, where she survives.

In other versions, Granny might be rescued, either by being cut from the wolf’s stomach or by the arrival of a huntsman, woodcutter, or woodsman who avenges her and Red. This rescuer typically kills the wolf but does not resurrect either of the survivors.

Adult Retellings

Modern retellings often take a more adult-oriented approach, interpreting the wolf as a metaphor for man’s sexual nature. In these versions, the wolf might seduce or even attempt to rape the young girl before being killed by the huntsman. These darker interpretations add layers of complexity to the original fairy tale.

The Huntsman’s Role

Interestingly, the huntsman’s actions tend to be more uniform across versions. In the vast majority of tales, the huntsman, woodcutter, or woodsman kills the wolf. This consistent aspect of the story serves to complete the narrative, ensuring that justice is served and the threat removed.

Modern Interpretations

In more contemporary reimaginings, Granny is often hidden in a wardrobe rather than being eaten. This change reflects a more modern sensibility, aiming to preserve the central elements of the story without the more brutal conclusion.

However, in some versions, the wolf still takes Granny as his meal. The common thread throughout these variations is the deception used by the wolf, who often disguises himself as Granny to trick the young girl into thinking she is safe with him.

These variations serve to enrich our understanding of the tale, offering insights into different cultural interpretations and modern sensibilities. By exploring the many versions of ‘What Did the Wolf Do with Granny,’ we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and evolution of fairy tales over time.