A Content Analysis on the Meaning of Disenchantment in Fairy Tales

by Howson, Elizabeth Walker

Howson, Elizabeth Walker. A Content Analysis on the Meaning of Disenchantment in Fairy Tales. A Master’s Paper for the M.S. in L.S. degree. November, 2007. 32 pages. Advisor: Brian Sturm

This study is a content analysis of disenchantment in fairy tales. It examines fifteen fairy tales to see what sorts of methods of disenchantment are used, and what these methods say about the use of disenchantment in these stories.

As a result of this study, four methods of disenchantment were identified. They are disenchantment through love, disenchantment through removal of a foreign object, disenchantment through violence, and disenchantment through courage. By examining disenchantment in fairy tales, it is clear that this concept is a tool for conveying the importance of honor, goodness, acceptance and inner strength to readers.

Headings:

Fairy tales – Psychological aspects

Folklore and children