Modifications & Strengths/Weaknesses

Modifications

One of the main modifications would be that there are seven children, as opposed to Tom being an only child. This significantly alters the story in that Tom has to save not only himself but also his siblings.
Another modification is the added violence. It seems odd that more violence occurs in Perrault’s version as opposed to Grimm’s. In many other tales it has been the other way around. The only violence that occurred in Grimm’s version was the killing of the cow and the wolf. Perrault’s version however, had violence widespread throughout the text.

Strengths/Weaknesses

A strength in the text is Tom’s ability to use his intelligence to overcome a problem. He does this all throughout the story, not only saving himself and his siblings but also bringing his family fortune.
A weakness in the text would be the parents’ decision to get rid of their children. The decision seemed lame, as it was an easy way out for them.

Grimm

Modifications

One major difference is that the parents don’t abandon Tom but rather temporary give him up
Another difference is that Tom is an only child
Grimm’s version of Tom Thumb does not contain as much violence. The only violence is the killing of the cow and the wolf.