The elements of folktales identified in these lines include the time and setting, characters, family dynamics, jealousy and conflict, the potential for magical elements, the cruel stepmother, the animal companion, the protagonist's kindness and generosity, and the potential for growth and transformation. These elements contribute to the folkloric nature of the story, adding depth and meaning to the narrative.
In the given lines 1-20, there are several elements of folktales that can be identified:
1. Time and Setting: The story is set in the "dim past" before the Ch'in and the Han dynasties, indicating a historical and mythical context often found in folktales.
2. Characters: The main character, Yeh-Shen, is an orphan girl who grows up in her stepmother's home. This aligns with the common folktale theme of a young protagonist facing challenges.
3. Family Dynamics: Yeh-Shen's father has two wives, and after one wife dies, he also passes away. This reflects the common folktale trope of stepmothers and family struggles.
4. Jealousy and Conflict: Yeh-Shen's stepmother is jealous of her beauty and goodness. This represents a recurring theme in folktales where a jealous or wicked character opposes the main character.
5. Magical Elements: Although not explicitly mentioned in the given lines, many folktales include magical or supernatural elements. It is possible that such elements could be introduced later in the story.
6. Cruel Stepmother: Yeh-Shen's stepmother treats her poorly and assigns her heavy and unpleasant chores. This reflects the common folktale theme of a wicked stepmother or evil guardian figure who mistreats the protagonist.
7. Animal Companion: Yeh-Shen's only friend is a fish that she caught and raised. This animal companion is reminiscent of the animal helpers often found in folktales. The fish has golden eyes and waits for Yeh-Shen to feed it, highlighting the bond between the protagonist and her animal friend.
8. Kindness and Generosity: Despite her own hardships, Yeh-Shen always finds something to share with her fish companion. This demonstrates the folktale motif of the protagonist exhibiting kindness and generosity, even in difficult circumstances.
9. Growth and Transformation: The fish grows to an enormous size, indicating a potential for magical or transformative elements in the story. This aligns with the common folktale theme of growth and transformation, where characters undergo significant changes or experiences.