The motifs and symbols in fairy tales can be interpreted in different ways, depending on the cultural context in which they are read. One symbol that exists in many fairy tales is the idea of kissing frogs. This motif may seem whimsical and playful, but when taking a deeper look, it becomes obvious that kissing a frog represents much more than a simple magical transformation. In modern fairy tales, “kisses do not always result in miraculous transformations or bring about the desired change” (Mieder 118) and have become a celebration of independence, mutual respect, and breaking stereotypes.

In many fairy tales, kissing a frog is associated with personal gain. In The Frog Prince, the princess kisses a frog because she wants to retrieve her golden ball (Grimm, J., et al.). This gesture is superficial and leads to the frog transforming into a prince, but it’s more of a consolation prize. On the contrary, Disney’s The Princess and the Frog focuses on Tiana’s journey of love and valuing one’s inner qualities. The narrative raises topics of mutual respect and personal growth in relationships. This version changes the conversation from superficial themes towards companionship and love, showing an evolution in how society perceives and appreciates genuine connections. Much of this perception is reflected in the character’s upbringing and cultural beliefs. Tiana sums up this concept when she tells Dr. Facilier, “My Daddy never did get what he wanted. But he had what he needed. He had love. He never lost sight o’ what was really important” (The Princess and the Frog).

However, as society’s attitudes towards love evolves over time, the interpretation of the kissing frogs in fairy tales evolves as well. In modern retellings of classic fairy tales, the act of kissing a frog has taken on new symbolic meanings that go beyond the traditional narratives we are accustomed to. For example in the movie Shrek, where Princess Fiona is under a curse that transforms her into an ogre each night. She can marry Lord Farquaad, who is a human, and break the spell with a kiss. However, Fiona chooses Shrek, who is an ogre after falling in love with him. When Fiona chooses Shrek she becomes an ogre forever, instead of returning permanently to her human state (Shrek). This is a twist on the motif of the frog prince, as both the frog and Shrek are undesirable characters. Yet in Shrek, the princess chooses to turn herself into an undesirable creature, instead of choosing to be what traditional stereotypes define as “beautiful”.

Changing ideas about relationships and love are reflected in the Shrek story and other newer fairy tales. In traditional fairy tales, the act of kissing a frog is often portrayed as a means to an end. However, in more modern interpretations, like The Princess and the Frog, the act of kissing a frog may be seen as a symbol of taking risks and being open to new experiences in relationships. Modern fairy tales continue to challenge traditional gender roles and expectations by focusing on the importance of authentic connections and mutual respect in relationships. The motif of kissing frogs in fairy tales gives us an interesting look into society’s changing attitudes towards love over time. As cultural values and norms continue to evolve, interpretations of this classic fairy tale motif will also change.