Fairy Tales Belong to All of Us | Jonathan Pageau

Summary

The transcript emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of fairy tales, cautioning against treating them as novels or works of fiction. It highlights the role of the Grimm brothers and others in collecting and translating these stories, which were not of their own creation. The speaker encourages an appreciation for the poetic and patterned nature of fairy tales, akin to music and grammar, and suggests engaging with them by recognizing and playing with these patterns, all while maintaining reverence and love for the stories.

Takeaways

• 📚 The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing that fairy tales are not original creations but rather compilations and translations of traditional stories.
• 🙏 There is a call for gratitude towards those like the Grimm brothers, who preserved and beautifully presented these tales in a poetic form.
• ⚠️ A warning is issued against treating fairy tales as novels, suggesting they have a different significance and structure.
• 🎼 Fairy tales are likened to music and grammar due to their repetitive patterns and rhyming elements, indicating a deeper structure beneath the surface.
• 🔍 The script encourages readers to delve into the 'grammar' of fairy tales, observing and interacting with their patterns and repetitions.
• 🍎 Specific examples are given, such as the recurring motif of a woman falling asleep, which is also found in biblical stories, to illustrate the interconnectedness of tales.
• 📖 It is suggested that while reading the Grimm version is valuable, one should also explore the underlying structure of the stories.
• 🎶 The idea of engaging with fairy tales as if they have a musical pattern is introduced, suggesting a way to appreciate their artistry.
• 👶 The speaker seems to be addressing parents or educators, advising them on how to read and interpret fairy tales for children.
• 🌟 There is an encouragement to approach fairy tales with reverence and love, indicating a deep respect for the cultural and historical significance of these stories.
• 💭 The transcript suggests that fairy tales can be a source of creative play and learning, beyond just their surface-level narratives.

Q & A

Why is it considered dangerous to treat fairy tales as mere texts?

It's dangerous because fairy tales are not just texts; they are cultural and historical narratives that have been passed down through generations. Treating them as mere texts overlooks their deeper significance and the way they are meant to be experienced.

Who are the Grimm brothers and what is their contribution to fairy tales?

The Grimm brothers, Jacob and Wilhelm, were German academics who are known for collecting and publishing many European folk tales. Their contribution lies in translating, collating, and presenting these stories in a poetic and beautiful way, preserving them for future generations.

What does the speaker mean by saying fairy tales are like 'grammar'?

The speaker is referring to the patterns and structures that are common across different fairy tales, similar to how grammar rules structure language. These patterns include recurring themes, motifs, and narrative devices that give fairy tales their familiar form.

Why do fairy tales often rhyme and have a musical pattern?

Fairy tales rhyme and have a musical pattern to make them more memorable and engaging. This oral tradition helps in the retelling and preservation of these stories across generations.

What is the significance of the repetition of themes and motifs in fairy tales?

The repetition of themes and motifs serves to reinforce cultural values and lessons. It also provides a sense of familiarity and comfort to the audience, making the stories more appealing and easier to remember.

How should one engage with fairy tales according to the speaker?

The speaker encourages engaging with fairy tales by not only reading them but also understanding their underlying 'grammar' or structure. This involves recognizing patterns and playing with the stories while maintaining reverence and love for the original narratives.

Why is it important to read the Grimm version of fairy tales?

Reading the Grimm version is important because it offers a historically significant and culturally rich collection of fairy tales. It allows readers to appreciate the stories in the context of their original telling and the poetic style of the Grimm brothers.

How can one play with the stories of fairy tales while respecting their original form?

One can play with the stories by adapting them to different contexts, exploring alternative endings, or creating new narratives inspired by the original tales, all while acknowledging and preserving the essence of the original stories.

What is the relationship between fairy tales and stories from religious texts like the Bible?

The relationship lies in the shared themes and motifs. Fairy tales, like religious texts, often convey moral lessons and universal truths through their narratives. However, they are distinct in their origins and the way they are meant to be interpreted.

What does the speaker suggest about the nature of fairy tales compared to novels?

The speaker suggests that fairy tales should not be treated like novels, which are typically the product of a single author's imagination. Fairy tales are collective narratives that have evolved over time and have been shaped by various storytellers.

How can an understanding of the 'grammar' of fairy tales enhance one's appreciation of them?

Understanding the 'grammar' of fairy tales allows one to see the intentionality behind their structure and themes. It provides a deeper insight into the cultural significance and the storytelling techniques used, thereby enriching the reading experience.