Abstract
Psychoanalytic theorists (Bettelheim 1977:105-106, 236-277; Spiro 1982:98-101) interpret the representation of siblings in myths and popular folktales as symbolic recastings of parent-child relations. Spiro (1982:98-101) observed that male sibling rivalry in myths is an expression of male oedipal rivalry where the brother as well as the father appear as obstacles to monopolizing the mother's affections. This paper describes and explains contrasting representations of male siblings in similar folktales in two different cultures in the Hispanic world. It argues that representations of brothers in popular folktales told by Cfaceres (Spain) and Nahuat (Mexico) villagers vary according to the father's relationship with his sons. I contend that Cgaceres fathers play a relatively minor role in caring for infant children and, consequently, reproduce in their sons weaker abilities (Chodorow 1978:169) that storytellers represent by depicting brothers as autonomous and hoardingrather than sharing their wealth-and as sexual rivals. The comparatively reduced relational capacities are part of nuclear family
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
