English 2F

Seminar 10
Fairy Tales  - Elements, Origins and Significance

Directions:

Think about these questions, in light of the material you read in Module 6 about fairy tales:

1. How would you define fairy tales? What are the common elements that we have come to associate with fairy tales?
2. What do you think about the notion that fairy tales are important to children's social and emotional development? Do you agree with the idea that children need fairy tales in their lives? Why or why not?
3. What do you think about the often "adult" themes in traditional versions of fairy tales - such as violence, seduction, imprisonment, death, etc.?  Why might fairy tales have retained so much of the adult themes and subject matter?  Does it harm or benefit children, in your opinion
4. What do children take away from fairy tales? What lessons  do they learn, what insights about the world and their place in it?
5. How do you think fairy tales work as a medium for transmiting culture and cultural values? Can you think of some examples of how a specific fairy tale might teach a specific cultural lesson?

Write a brief (1-2 paragraph) response to one or more of those questions. 

Post your paragraph using the "New Topic" button.  Postings will be due by Monday, 11/3 at midnight.

Respond to at least two of your classmates' paragraphs.  When you respond, do add something to the discussion. Don't just say "I agree" or "disagree".  Give specific reasons why you feel the way you do, examples from your own childhood or observations, and other evidence. Responses are due by midnight Monday, 11/10.