This line foreshadows the queen’s death of literally dancing in “red-hot iron shoes” (137) but it also could mean that that the queen’s determination and jealousy will consume her. Fire could mean that she is being consumed by something, not necessarily flames, while the iron shoes suggest something very strong and unyielding, like a restraint that the queen might have. Perhaps the queen’s iron shoes, something that can not be changed, is her age and beauty. This could mean that eventually, the queen’s age and beauty will consume her, and eventually lead her to her death. [S. Zimmerman]
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Comments (3)
Athenna Harrison said
at 11:58 pm on Oct 27, 2008
I never really understood this line, but now it makes much more sense! This is a great annotation and I think that it would be even better if you explained everything a little bit more.
Sara Zimmerman said
at 5:17 pm on Oct 30, 2008
Thanks! I want to expand on this idea, I just need to brainstorm a little bit more. It's such an unusual way to die, but there's definately a reason Sexton chose this method for our stepmother!!!
Tonya Howe said
at 8:52 pm on Oct 30, 2008
Remember that this mode of death is also in the Grimm tale, too--you might look at the subtle differences in wording between the two. I love the idea of being "consumed" by her beauty, which inevitably degrades ("as [beauty] do[es]")--after all, isn't that why she want's to "consume" Snow White?
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