Apart from the Bible, there is probably no body of material that is as familiar to Western society as fairy tales. Transmitted orally for hundreds of years until they were eventually recorded, these tales can be found in many versions worldwide. In this process, the tales have undergone constant transformation as generations of tellers, collectors, writers, and artists across cultures have been drawn to this motherlode of story. What accounts for their enduring relevance and appeal?
Lecture given by Barbara Karasek
Brought to you by the McGill Community for Lifelong Learning – On the Road