Author Archives: Elise Darr

Week 7: The Little Mermaid

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When reading Hans Christian Anderson’s The Little Mermaid I couldn’t help but notice the recurring use of the the color red. Aerial plants red flowers and “a bright red weeping willow” in her garden (Anderson 109). The sunsets are described as having “red and violet clouds” (Anderson 111) and the storm seen by Aerial’s sister had “red flashes of lightning” (Anderson 112). One consistency between the use of red is its relation to the human world. The flora, sun, and sky are all key components of life above water. This is a stark contrast to the atmosphere of Aerial’s world, which is described as having a perpetual “blue tint” (Anderson 109). Anderson uses these colors to highlight the difference between Aerial’s life underwater and the human world she longs to be a part of.

While Anderson’s use of blue and red helps contrast the human world from ocean life, I believe he also intended to use these colors to carry a symbolic meaning that foreshadows Aerial’s fate. Blue is cool-toned and, in literature, often associated with calmness or even isolation. It is the complete opposite of red, which is warm and typically suggests passion and danger. By consistently linking red with elements of life on land, Anderson emphasizes the allure of the unknown and hints at the challenges Aerial will soon face. Aerial is drawn to red because that is how “the sun [appears] to her” (Anderson 109). She is often observing the sun as she attempts to get glimpses of the prince’s life. This makes her transformation into sea foam all the more symbolic as Anderson writes, “the sun now rose out of the sea; its beams threw a kindly warmth upon the cold foam” (Anderson 129). Despite her physical dissolution into sea foam, there is a sense of tenderness and compassion in the sun’s rays— almost an acceptance. Aerial willingly sacrificed herself for the prince. Therefore, I believe Anderson’s decision to describe the sun as red was intentional, as it foreshadows the passion Aerial has for the prince and the imminent transformation she will undergo.

Week 6: Interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world

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While reading “The Day after the Wedding” from Undine, I noticed how Undine is described as a “bubbly beauty” (101) that is “as mild and gentle as an angel” (103). Undine’s characterization differs greatly from the stories we discussed earlier this semester. Similar to Melsuine, she is loving and passionate— remaining loyal and kind to her husband. I interpreted Melsuine’s story as a cautionary tale highlighting the consequences of human’s disconnection from nature. Undine’s story seems to parallel this idea.

Despite Undine and Huldbrand’s differences in origin and essence, they remain utmostly devoted to one another. While Undine’s origin may be considered “strange” (104) to humans, Huldbrand continues to embrace his “sweet wife” with “the most heartfelt emotion and love” (106). Their marriage may symbolize the potential harmony between humans and nature. Huldbrand’s deep affection for Undine remains steadfast, illustrating his willingness to embrace her despite her supernatural nature. The natural world is still unknown to humans, but the couple’s love shows that there is an opportunity for cooperation and understanding.

Undine and Huldbrand’s relationship highlights the need for humans to reconsider their relationship with the natural world. Rather than viewing nature as something to be conquered or controlled, perhaps we should learn to accept and embrace its mysteries. As Undine says, “all beings aspire to be higher than they are” (105). Inherent with all beings, whether humans or otherwise, is the inclination to strive for betterment and advancement. Historically, humans have attempted betterment through conquering the natural world. Undine’s quote suggests that all natural and human beings are, in a sense, the same— always looking for more. “The Day after the Wedding” may advise humans to recognize this similarity and urge us to cultivate a deeper connection with nature. Doing so may lead to a greater sense of interconnectedness and fulfillment.

Week 5: What does the story of Melusine say about humanity’s relationship with the natural world?

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As I learned about Melusina through The Legend of Melusina and The Romance of the Faery Melusine, I became intrigued by what these stories say about man’s relationship with the natural world. Chapter one of The Romance of the Faery Melusine discusses man’s innate desire to conquer “the unknown” as doing so is “the extension of their physical and spiritual power” (23). At the beginning of the chapter, the nature surrounding the village is described as “menacing,” “dangerous,” and “somehow diabolic” (11). The natural enviornment is seen as unpredictable and threatening— and confronting nature’s force is explained to be a true test of character. 

This merciless description of nature differs greatly from the words used to describe Melusine. Legend of Melusina describes the maiden as beautiful and well-mannered (Bacchilega, Brown 87). The Romance of Faery Melusine emphasizes Melusine’s beauty by illustrating her as a “force of light” (25) that is “smiling upon” Raymondin (25). Despite Melusine’s connection to the natural world, she is far from the savage description of nature given earlier in the story. In fact, she is not “diabolic” (11) but rather “a faithful Christian” (25) meant to “put a seal of truth upon the words of the old lord” (26). This portrayal suggests that Melusine is the embodiment of harmony and goodness within the natural world. 

Perhaps Raymond’s broken vow of not seeing Melusine on Saturdays is a cautionary tale explaining the consequences of violating nature’s laws. Melusine’s transformation into a serpent or dragon may be symbolic of man’s arrogance and pride. Do humans need to conquer the unknown to truly show their “mettle” (12)? Maybe embracing and respecting our natural world is a better testament to our spirit and morals. 

Overall, the story of Melusina highlights the complex relationship humans have with nature and warns humanity of the consequences that come with disrupting nature’s balance. 

Week Three: Does the hybrid body of mermaids dehumanize women?

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One thing I found particularly interesting after completing the first couple weeks of reading was the different interpretations of the mermaid’s hybrid body and how each depiction dehumanizes women. Vaughn Scribner’s Merpeople: A Human History discusses the Western perception of the maiden’s “part woman, part fish, part animal” figure (Scribner 76). The alluring bodies of these women are explained to be “strange” but “wonderful”— emphasizing the mystery surrounding mermaids (Scribner 76). As we have discussed in class, the Catholic Church used the appeal of mermaids to emphasize the dangers of femininity. The church made it clear that when men encounter a mermaid, they must not fall victim to their intrigue because it will bring “personal grief” and “humans to horrible ends” (Scribner 55).

The Penguin Book of Mermaids by Cristiana Bacchilega and Marie Alogalani Brown also considers the Western interpretation of the hybridity of mermaids. They explain that the “single fishtail [marks mermaids] as having some control over their bodies” while the “bare-breasted top” suggests her “duplicitous nature” (Bacchilega, Brown xiii). However, Bacchilega and Brown also discuss the Rene Magritte painting “The Collective Invention.” In Magritte’s depiction of the mermaid’s hybrid body, the top and bottom are switched. So, the woman is pictured with a “fish head” while the lower body is “human and naked” (Bacchilega, Brown xiii). There is nothing sensual about “The Collection Invention.” This painting takes away the beauty surrounding mermaids and makes them look frightening. Magritte’s painting dehumanizes these creatures and, I believe, shows the misogyny present in early tales and depictions of mermaids. Men took women’s bodies and made them something to be afraid of. This further shows how demonized women were at this time and the imbalance of power between women and men.

I am curious to see if other cultures’ stories regarding mermaids are as misogynistic as the Western’s. Colonialism has impacted many cultures around the world, so I wonder if the Western influence has impacted mermaid myths and legends more than we think.

Week Two: Merpeople: A Human History

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Chapters one through two of Vaughn Scribner’s Merpeople: A Human History discuss the origins of mermaids and how these creatures became a cultural phenomenon. As someone unfamiliar with the history behind mermaids, I found it fascinating to learn how Christianity impacted their perception.

Initially, churches used images and sculptures of mermaids to “remind followers of the infinite power of God” and force onlookers to confront their “relationship with their faith” and “sinful nature” (Scribner 43). From a modern perspective, I found this particularly interesting as I never considered mermaids to be overtly monstrous. However, as I consider the era in which these images were created, I can understand how these creatures may be jarring. In the medieval ages, women were demonized and expected to be subservient to men. Early depictions of mermaids reflect this as they describe these women as “a monstrosity” and “suggestive reminder of the dangers of feminity” (Scribner 51). Essentially, mermaids were thought to be destructive, “vengeful creatures” who would lead men “to their misfortune” (Scribner 55).

Growing up, I only ever thought of mermaids as strong, independent women navigating the difficult nature of the ocean. I looked up to mermaids and would often daydream about a life where I was one. So, upon reading this week’s chapters, I was shocked to learn that this perspective was entirely different from those in the medieval ages. I can only imagine what it would be like to be a woman at a time when these stories were believed to be fact. To men, women were purely figures of fear and desire. I am curious to see if the book discusses how the perception of mermaids evolved to become the symbol of female empowerment I associate them with today.

Week One: Introduction

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Hi everyone! My name is Elise and I am a second-year Marketing major. I’m from Pennsylvania so I am really grateful to be studying in San Diego. I love spending time outside so San Diego’s weather has been extremely refreshing. Whenever I have free time, I love to bring a book to the beach and read. My time spent reading by the water is what initially sparked my interest in this class. I was unaware that our discussions would focus on mermaids, but I am eager to learn more. I have always found mermaids extremely fascinating but was never given the opportunity to explore this phenomenon. Overall I am extremely excited for this upcoming semester!