The purpose of my research is to showcase how the fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty possess dark and disturbing elements that allow it to be compatible with the horror genre. Using six different adaptations (3 text and 3 film), my research showcases the elements that can be used to turn the tale of Sleeping Beauty into a horror adaptation. Almost all the adaptations include the element of the curse placed upon Sleeping Beauty and the inclusion of the evil fairy (Maleficent), which already produces dark and frightening themes. In Basile’s “Sun, Moon, and Talia” and Perrault’s “The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood” both adaptations add the theme of murder and cannibalism which gives the tale further elements allowing it greater compatibility with the horror genre. The film “The Curse of Sleeping Beauty” is categorized as a horror thriller which provides clear evidence of how the tale can be successfully adapted into the horror genre. Taking the story of Sleeping Beauty and retelling the tale through a different genre gives it a new meaning and experience. Disney's "Maleficent" film focuses on the evil fairy and has lots of dark themes and elements to it that distinguish it from Disney's "Sleeping Beauty". Although Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty” and Grimm’s “Little Brier-Rose” would not be considered as being dark or part of the horror genre they include elements such as, the curse placed upon Sleeping Beauty, the inclusion of the evil fairy, and the danger of the thorn covered tower that add to the underlying darkness of this fairy tale. The secondary source by Steven Ford discusses the dark and terrifying origin stories of Sleeping Beauty, and how newer adaptations tried to move away from the darkness and scary elements. My scholarly sources are used for a broader analysis on the relationship between horror and fairy tales. Jessica Tiffin links the movie “Scream” with “Little Brier-Rose” as well as other examples to showcase how fairy tales influence horror films. David Lewin and Anna Kérchy both focus within their works, on the effects of horror within children’s literature. Which illustrates the link between fairy tales and the horror genre. 
	In conclusion, the research I have conducted allows me to showcase the dark and scary themes of Sleeping Beauty and how the fairy tale is compatible with the horror genre. To make my research even stronger I would do more research within the genre of horror to see if it gives the audience a stronger or weaker experience/interaction with the work (text or film).

Items