|
Author
|
Comment
|
lan22
Unregistered User
(3/26/02 6:41:39 pm)
|
characteristics of a fairy tale
I am beginning a new unit with my grade one class. I just can't seem to find what the "definite characteristics" of fairy tales are? I appreciate the help.
|
Helen
Registered User
(3/26/02 8:05:21 pm)
|
Re: characteristics of a fairy tale
You might try consulting Vladimir Propp's _Morphology of the Fairy Tale_ for some specific characteristics, though that might be more technical than what you're looking for. Other good sources would be Tolkein's essay "On Fairy Stories," Terri Windling's Introduction to _Snow White, Blood Red_ (or, really, to any of the fairy tale anthologies; that essay is just one of my own personal favorites) or Jane Yolen's _Touch Magic_. They all say it far better than I could, but the fundamental defining characteristics of the fairy tale appear to be the combination of certain plot elements - the search for self and maturity - with the atmosphere of wonder.
|
JaNell
Registered User
(3/27/02 4:28:08 pm)
|
Thank you
I'm so glad that you started this topic; I've been wondering myself how to define a fairy tale, or rather, what the standard definition is.
|
