Look, Mom! I'm a Hero!

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In fairy tales, children are often the protagonists, and even the heroes. This does make a lot of sense,since many fairy tales have their roots as tales to be told to children, either as cautionary tales or lessons. Common forms of the child-hero are trickster figures, who use their intellect to get out of situations. “Little Thumbling”, though ridiculed by his family and seen as dumb and small, saves his siblings through his mental maturity and ability to be cunning. It is through this journey that he gains respect and saves his siblings.

In the folktale "Momotaro"or "The Peach Boy", Momotaro must leave his town and his elderly parents on a quest. Featuring an antagonist in the form of an ogre just like "Little Thumbling", this story is different. In this story, Momotaro is only able to achieve his goals through the help of his animal allies, teaching lessons about how help can lead to success. His growth into adulthood is also portrayed in this folktale though his quest, and he ends the tale as "Lord Momotaro", sharing his wealth with his allies.
                                
From a psychoanalytical, Freudian perspective, these types of stories have important lessons in children leaving home, and presents it vital for both parent and child. In some stories, there is an evil parental figure who forces the child away, like in "Little Thumbling". In others, the parent is not evil, but it is still neccessary for the child to leave the house for the sake of his or her growth and maturity, as shown in "Momotaro".


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