A Companion to the Fairy Tale

This insightful volume offers a comprehensive exploration of the European and North American fairy tale, dissecting its core characteristics and tracing its narrative DNA. The book moves beyond simple storytelling to investigate the very mechanics of the genre, providing readers with the critical tools to understand what makes a fairy tale tick. It systematically unpacks the recurring motifs, archetypal characters, and symbolic structures that form the foundation of these enduring stories, from humble cottages to enchanted castles.

What sets this companion apart is its rigorous engagement with the multitude of scholarly theories surrounding the tales' development and hidden meanings. The author guides the reader through various lenses of interpretation, from psychological and historical to socio-cultural analyses, without favoring a single school of thought. This approach makes it an invaluable resource for students of literature and mythology, as well as any dedicated reader whose appreciation for these classic narratives is deepened by understanding their profound and complex origins.