In Orson Scott Card's "Enchantment," the classic story of Sleeping Beauty takes on a darker tone when set in Russia. The author contrasts the lighthearted endings commonly found in French or English versions of fairy tales with a more somber perspective that reflects the complexities of Russian culture. This suggests that fairy tales can vary significantly across different cultures, revealing deeper and more challenging narratives.
The mention of a "fool" wanting to experience the Russian version implies a caution against romanticizing fairy tales without acknowledging their harsher realities. In the context of the story, this commentary emphasizes the unique struggles and intricacies inherent in the Russian fairy tale tradition, inviting readers to reconsider the nature of enchantment and the true essence of happiness within these tales.