1. The plot of "The Apple-Tree" by Katherine Mansfield follows the "fall from innocence" archetype in a similar way to the original story of Adam and Eve. In both stories, there is a sense of loss of innocence and the consequences that come with it.
In "The Apple-Tree," the protagonist, Leila, starts off in a state of innocence and naivety. She has an idealized picture of her Governess, Miss Meadows, and believes that she has a special connection with her. However, as the story progresses, Leila witnesses Miss Meadows' interactions with other members of the family, which challenge her idealization of the Governess. This realization shatters Leila's innocence and she becomes aware of the complexities of adulthood and human interactions.
Similarly, in the story of Adam and Eve, they start off in the Garden of Eden in a state of innocence. They have a close relationship with God and enjoy the beauty and bounty of the garden. However, when they eat from the forbidden tree of knowledge, they gain awareness of good and evil, and their innocence is lost. They are banished from the garden and face the consequences of their actions.
Both stories depict a fall from a state of innocence, where characters become aware of the complexities and hardships of life. It shows that once innocence is lost, there is no going back to the previous state.
2. One example of another story that follows a similar plot or setting archetype as "The Apple-Tree" is the movie "American Beauty." In this film, the main character, Lester Burnham, starts off living a mundane and unfulfilled life. He is unhappy in his job, his marriage is strained, and he feels disconnected from his daughter. However, when he develops a crush on his daughter's friend and starts pursuing his own desires, his life undergoes a transformation. He begins to question the societal expectations and norms that have been imposed on him, and embraces a more authentic and liberated version of himself. The story explores themes of personal transformation, breaking free from societal constraints, and the consequences of following one's desires.
3. The use of archetypes in a story like "The Apple-Tree" is not necessarily lazy or unimaginative. Archetypes are storytelling elements that have been used throughout history because they resonate with human experiences and emotions. They provide a familiar framework for readers or viewers to connect with the story and its characters.
While it is important for authors to strive for originality, incorporating archetypes can still be valuable. Authors have the opportunity to put their own spin on familiar themes and archetypal structures, adding their unique perspective and storytelling style. Additionally, archetypes can serve as a foundation that allows authors to delve deeper into the complexities of human experiences and emotions.
For example, in "The Apple-Tree," the fall from innocence archetype provides a framework to explore the challenges of growing up and the disillusionment that comes with it. Katherine Mansfield adds her own narrative and character development to create a nuanced portrayal of Leila's journey.
4. One example of a story from a different source that has a similar plot or setting to either Prometheus and Pandora or the Iroquois story of the Sky Woman and her twins is the movie "Avatar" directed by James Cameron.
In "Avatar," the plot revolves around a conflict between a technologically advanced human civilization and a native species called the Na'vi who inhabit the planet Pandora. The story shares similarities with the Iroquois story of the Sky Woman and her twins, where there is a clash between different groups of beings.
In both "Avatar" and the Iroquois story, there is a focus on the struggle for land and resources, the clash between different cultural and spiritual beliefs, and the exploration of themes related to nature and the harmony between humans and the environment.
These stories highlight the recurring themes and plot elements found in various cultures and storytelling traditions, showcasing the universal aspects of human experiences and conflicts.