ABSTRACT
The widespread tabus against entering one forbidden place, or more specifically a forbidden chamber, derive from two distinct kinds of social restrictions. First, cautionary tabus warn against physical and perceived spiritual dangers in such natural sites as woods, mountaintops, or bodies of water, as well as places controlled or frequented by potential adversaries. Second, tabus also impart awe to and protect sacred areas accessible only to consecrated individuals, for example, the Holy of Holies section in the ancient Temple of Jerusalem. Both types of restrictions are reflected in folktales and myths. "Mary's Child" from the Grimms' Children's and Household Tales exemplifies folktales using the forbidden chamber motif as a religious interdiction. The best-known European folktales featuring forbidden doors are those of Types 311 and 312, Three Sisters Rescued. A male counterpart to the forbidden-chamber motifs discusses can be found in the extremely widespread folktales of Type 303, known generically as The Blood Brothers.
