Into the show : an in-depth analysis of the musical Into the woods : [an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Abstract

Into the Woods, a musical by Stephen Sondheim, is based on four familiar fairy tales: Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk,� and Little Red Ridinghood.� In the show, Sondheim develops several themes and characters through his text, music, and the use of fairy tale motifs. Our thesis traces the themes of opportunity, ambivalence, and teaching children, and connects these themes to the music and use of fairy tale motifs and story-telling techniques.