Fairytales, What do they Teach Us?

by Dr. Denise Renye

Fairytales have been a popular form of literature for centuries, and they often are challenging to understand through a modern feminist lens. It seems that there are plenty of issues with how the characters loose themselves in the relationship, the traditional gender roles, and the lack of autonomy for all of the characters. However, fairytales contain archetypal themes and symbols that reflect universal human experiences and can give deep insight into the inner psychology of ourselves. Jungian psychology, developed by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, provides a framework for understanding the psychological significance of fairytales, particularly in relation to the concept of the divine inner marriage.

According to Jung, the psyche is composed of both conscious and unconscious elements, and the unconscious contains a wealth of archetypal images and symbols that can be accessed through dreams, myths, and fairytales. Fairytales often feature characters who undergo a journey of transformation, encountering challenges and obstacles that ultimately lead to a state of psychological integration or wholeness.

One of the most prominent archetypes in fairytales is the divine inner union or marriage, which represents the integration of the masculine and feminine aspects of the psyche. This archetype is often depicted through the union of a prince and princess or a king and queen, symbolizing the union of opposites and the attainment of psychological balance. From a psychological standpoint, this has little to do with external gender.

The divine inner union or marriage can also be seen in the journey of the hero or heroine, who must overcome inner and outer obstacles to achieve a state of psychological wholeness. This journey often involves confronting one's own shadow, or the repressed aspects of the psyche that are often associated with negative emotions such as anger, jealousy, and fear.

Through the process of confronting and integrating these shadow elements, the hero or heroine is able to achieve a sense of inner balance and harmony, ultimately leading to a state of psychological wholeness and the attainment of the divine inner union or marriage.

Jungian psychology provides a valuable lens through which to understand the psychological significance of fairytales, particularly in relation to the concept of the divine inner marriage. By exploring the archetypal themes and symbols present in fairytales, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own psyche and the journey of transformation that is necessary for psychological integration and wholeness.

To set up an appointment with me (Marin County Sex Therapist), click here.