1) I definitely have to agree with a few of you that have posted about the Caliph confusion. I found myself unable to take in the story with just one reading. I went and looked back at the previous stories and saw no mention on this character, but I did notice that the stories are not sequential within the book (the page numbers on the bottom). So, is Caliph introduced in another story somewhere in the middle? I don't know about anyone else but I find it difficult to relate/understand/sympathize for a character if I haven't been properly introduced. Once reading it a second time, I was able to focus less on the disconnect and more on the story itself. But still, I wanna know who this is?
2) As for meeting the criteria for a tale, I believe that The Mistress of the House's Tale did an excellent job. Many of the aspects (i.e. the man whom is a bird, the cursed sisters, lovers turmoil, death of parents, etc.) fell right into the cookie cutter of "tale". However, the neglect of the "happily ever after" made me feel like this is an adult version of a tale. Yes, I still appreciate the "happily ever after" as much as the next person, but when a book or story doesn't end the way one would expect or harsher than disney makes me appreciate the book/story more (even if the end is upsetting). It makes the characters more realistic (even if the faults or tragedy's are fantastical).
3) Whenever a new female character is introduced (in all four stories we've read), they're perfect. They're beauty is unparalleled and makes men weak in the knees (literally). Women are held on a pedestal, if they're beautiful men will literally kill another to claim her as her own. On the flip side, whenever a male character is introduced, they are described by their possessions and social status. I can't recall a physical description (except for the jinnis) of any male character, but correct me if I'm wrong.
4) Reading these kind of reminds me of an adult version of Aesop's Fables. Why? I don't know. But I do know that these are refreshing to read after constantly having true love prevail and characters living happily ever after. It makes the characters more relatable (even the fantastical ones). Love is a powerful force and one to be reckoned with.
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