red riding hood

This version of little red riding hood is quite similar to the one i read growing up, except in that version she is always saved from the wolf's stomach unscathed. I think this is done purposely because it shows an innocent child being protected by a man, as if that is the only way we as women are safe, under the protection of men. I believe the wolf represents anyone who is particulary harmful to children. Or who prey on the innocence of children for their own personal gain. I'm not to sure about her riding hood, possibly red to show her as a target to be prayed on. The hood may have been a way of covering herself so that the world could not see her. The woods may very well be symbolic of the dangers of the world.

This tale being passed down from mother to daughter would be to serve as a cautionary tale about being naive and straying from your path. Also it is very important to the story that the predator be a wolf. Mainly because wolves are sneaky and cunning. It's easier to see a predator as a wolf because they trick their prey into falling into their trap. A bear is obviously a danger, where as a conniving wolf can convince your of otherwise.