The Oxford Companion to Fairy Tales

This comprehensive reference work offers an authoritative exploration of fairy tales across centuries and cultures, serving as an essential guide to both classic stories and their modern adaptations. The companion delves deep into the tales themselves while expanding its scope to examine the authors who shaped them and their surprising appearances in film, visual arts, and even commercial advertising. Readers will discover how these enduring narratives have evolved from ancient oral traditions to contemporary reinterpretations across various media forms.

What distinguishes this volume is its remarkable breadth, connecting traditional folklore studies with unexpected cultural applications that reveal why these stories remain relevant today. The companion proves particularly valuable for students and enthusiasts seeking to understand fairy tales not as static artifacts but as living traditions that continue to influence creative expression. Through its meticulous scholarship and surprising connections, this reference transforms how we perceive these familiar stories and their lasting impact on global culture.