What is a Fairy Tale?
A fairy tale is a wonder tale, a kind of folktale or fable where we can expect to meet witches, queens, giants, elves, dragons, princes and princesses. Fairy tales are often set in Enchanted Forests or Kingdoms where marvellous and magical things tend to happen to characters and even objects.
The oldest fairy tales were told and retold generations before they were written down, however, French tales were the first to be recorded. Over the years writers have continued rewriting these classic stories, each time adding in their own interpretations and unique telling’s. Although one thing is for sure “people everywhere like stories in which truth prevails over deception, generosity is ultimately rewarded, hard work overcomes obstacles, and love, mercy and kindness are the greatest powers of all.” (Teacher.scholastic.com, 1997)
The oldest fairy tales were told and retold generations before they were written down, however, French tales were the first to be recorded. Over the years writers have continued rewriting these classic stories, each time adding in their own interpretations and unique telling’s. Although one thing is for sure “people everywhere like stories in which truth prevails over deception, generosity is ultimately rewarded, hard work overcomes obstacles, and love, mercy and kindness are the greatest powers of all.” (Teacher.scholastic.com, 1997)
What distinguishes a fairy tale?
- The setting is distinguished from our primary world.
- Magic is the norm
- There is always a happy ending
All well written stories must have a conflict and resolution. However, unlike most stories, a fairy tales resolution is never through ordinary means. “There is always a fairy godmother or magical spell that saves the day.” (Julianne, 2013)