Illustrated by Fritz Kredel
Copyright 1945
Why do we read fairy tales to children? The stories can be so frightening and brutal. Then, somehow, no matter how hopeless the
situation seems, a happily ever after usually follows.
It is because we can’t shelter children from the cruelty
that exists.
Pain and loss and heartache are real. Fairytales confirm this fact. A terrible curse,
an evil witch, a cruel step-mother – the form of evil may change, but is
usually present. Compare that to war,
natural disasters, bullies – unavoidable evils will always exist in the real
world.
But there is also good – the good fairy, the kind prince, the
helpful animals. Compare to the kindness of friends or family,
beauty in nature, selflessness of strangers.
The good can always be found.
This is why we read fairy tales to children.
We can’t block the evil from their lives, but we can give
them hope of a happily ever after.
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