Fairy

SophieAndersonTakethefairfaceofWoman

Falero Luis Ricardo Lily Fairy 1888

File:An Introduction to Medieval and Renaissance Literature

An Introduction to Medieval and Renaissance Literature

James I; Daemonologie, in forme of a dialogue. Title page. Wellcome M0014280

Brock Fairy

Fairy refers to a type of mythical being or legendary creature found in the folklore of multiple European cultures (including Celtic, Slavic, German, English, and French folklore), a form of spirit, often described as metaphysical, supernatural, or preternatural. The concept of fairies is incredibly diverse and varies widely in different cultures and the interpretations of historical texts. Fairies are often depicted as human in appearance and having magical powers. Their origins are less clear, with some theories proposing they are a form of demon or angel influenced by pagan deities, while others suggest they embody spirits of the dead or pre-Christian nature spirits.

Characteristics

Fairies are generally described as human in appearance and having magical powers. Diminutive fairies of one kind or another have been recorded for centuries, but the idea that only tiny beings with wings were fairies has taken root in modern times. They are often depicted as young, sometimes winged, humanoids of small stature. They are capable of being benevolent or malevolent, and their attitude towards humans varies from helpful to mischievous or harmful. The concept of "fairy" in the narrow sense is unique to English folklore, conflating Germanic elves with influences from Celtic and Romance folk beliefs, and later made "diminutive" according to the tastes of Victorian era "fairy tales" for children.

Origins

The etymology of the word "fairy" comes from the Old French form faerie, a derivation from fae with the suffix -erie, in turn deriving from Late Latin fata, one of the incarnate spirits in Roman mythology known as the Fates. The concept has its roots in the folklore of various pre-Christian European cultures, with many of the characteristics of fairies from the medieval period being similar to those of various creatures found in ancient Greek and Roman literature, such as nymphs, satyrs, and sileni.

In Literature

Fairies have long been a common theme in literature and storytelling, with their origins in folklore being adapted and transformed. One of the most famous literary works featuring fairies is William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, where they are central to the plot, influencing the human characters in various ways. The Victorian and Edwardian eras saw a surge in interest in fairies, with numerous works of literature and art focusing on these mythical beings, reflecting a nostalgia for the folklore of the British Isles.

Fairies in Modern Culture

In modern times, fairies continue to be a popular element in various forms of media, including books, films, and television shows. They are often depicted in a more whimsical and benign manner, especially in children's literature and media. The image of the fairy as a tiny, winged creature has become entrenched in popular culture, largely due to the influence of works such as J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan, where Tinker Bell has become an iconic representation of this modern interpretation of fairies.

See Also

• Mythology
• Folklore
• Elf
• Nymph
• Sprite (folklore)

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