The Firebird: Understanding the real trouble
An old Russian fairy tale brings us food for thought in these challenging times. Lisa Schneidau explores the mysterious story of the Firebird.
Prison or Prophecy? The Woman in the Tower
For many, the Woman in the Tower is a symbol of female oppression and repression, a highly negative image charged with a history of daughters denied their freedom. So, let’s take a look at some Women in Tower stories from different times and places, and see what symbolism we can find within them.
Fee, Fie, Fo, Fum: Behind Jack and the Beanstalk
“I’ve got something a lot better to exchange for that cow though, Jack,” said the man. “Something much more valuable than boring old money; something I think you’ll like, a lad of your… discerning taste.” The man’s eyes were twinkling, and out of his pocket he brought a handful of…beans.”
The Girl-Fish, an Underrated Fairy Tale by Andrew Lang
A spellbinding tale of redemption, The Girl-Fish is a tale overlooked by most fairy tale enthusiasts, but it contains a great heroine and her amazing adventure.
Rumpelstiltskin, a European Fairy Tale
Austin Hackney’s wonderful telling of the fairy tale ‘Rumpelstiltskin’.