Exploring the Dark Origins of Classic Fairy Tales: Were They Meant for Adults?

Fairy tales have been a staple of children’s literature for centuries, with stories like Cinderella, Snow White, and Little Red Riding Hood capturing the imaginations of young readers around the world. But what if these tales were not meant solely for the young? In recent years, scholars have begun to explore the darker, more mature themes present in many classic fairy tales, leading some to question whether these stories were originally intended for adult audiences. Join us as we delve into the murky origins of these beloved tales and examine the evidence for a hidden, adult-oriented history.

The History of Fairy Tales

The Evolution of Fairy Tales

Fairy tales have evolved over time, adapting to the needs and desires of different societies and cultures. These stories have undergone several transformations, reflecting the historical, cultural, and social contexts in which they were created and passed down.

1. Ancient Roots: Fairy tales can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, who told stories of gods and heroes. These tales often served as moral lessons and provided insight into the human condition.
2. Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, fairy tales became more prevalent in Europe, often revolving around themes of love, marriage, and adventure. Many of these stories were adapted from oral tradition into written texts, and were influenced by the religious beliefs of the time.
3. Enlightenment and Romanticism: With the Enlightenment and Romanticism, fairy tales began to focus more on individualism, nature, and the supernatural. This period saw the rise of literary fairy tales, with authors such as the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault creating new stories or collecting and publishing existing ones.
4. Modern Interpretations: In the 20th and 21st centuries, fairy tales have continued to evolve, with writers like Angela Carter and Philip Pullman reimagining classic stories with darker, more complex themes. These adaptations often challenge traditional narratives and offer new perspectives on familiar tales.

The evolution of fairy tales reflects the changing needs and values of society, as well as the creative adaptations of their storytellers.

The Purpose of Fairy Tales

Fairy tales have been a part of human culture for centuries, passed down through generations and translated into countless languages. The stories have evolved over time, changing with each retelling and adaptation. However, despite their enduring popularity, the true purpose of fairy tales has been a subject of much debate.

Some believe that fairy tales were originally meant to teach moral lessons to children, imparting values and ideals that would guide them through life. Others argue that the stories were created as a form of entertainment for adults, using elements of fantasy and horror to capture the imagination and provoke thought.

Still, others contend that fairy tales served a more complex purpose, blending elements of both education and entertainment in a way that appealed to both children and adults. They argue that the stories were meant to be a reflection of the society in which they were created, offering commentary on issues such as gender roles, social hierarchy, and the human condition.

Regardless of their intended purpose, fairy tales have left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness, shaping our understanding of the world and our place in it. By examining the dark origins of these classic stories, we can gain a deeper appreciation for their enduring power and significance.

The Darkness in Classic Fairy Tales

Violence in Fairy Tales

The classic fairy tales that we know and love today are often associated with magic, happily-ever-afters, and Disney adaptations. However, it’s important to remember that these stories originated in a different time and place, and they were not always meant for children. In fact, many of these tales contain violent and dark themes that were intended to be cautionary or instructional for adults.

One of the most prevalent forms of violence in fairy tales is physical abuse. In “Cinderella,” the titular character is subjected to physical abuse by her stepmother and stepsisters, who make her do all the household chores and refuse to let her attend the ball. In “Snow White,” the evil queen tries to kill Snow White twice by poisoning her and having a huntsman cut her head off, respectively. And in “Hansel and Gretel,” the siblings are abandoned in the woods by their father and almost eaten by a cannibalistic witch.

Another form of violence in fairy tales is war and conflict. In “The Three Little Pigs,” the big bad wolf tries to huff and puff and blow the houses down, and in “Jack and the Beanstalk,” the giant is portrayed as a fearsome and aggressive character who is angered by Jack’s theft of his treasure. In “Rapunzel,” the prince must fight his way past a witch to rescue Rapunzel from her tower prison.

Finally, many fairy tales contain sexual violence or themes that may be uncomfortable for modern readers. In “The Beauty and the Beast,” the Beast initially kidnaps Belle and holds her captive in his castle, while in “Little Red Riding Hood,” the wolf attempts to trick Little Red into taking off her clothes and climbing into bed with him. In “Bluebeard,” the titular character murders his wives and keeps their bodies hidden in a secret room, while in “The Girl with No Hands,” a young girl is maimed by a devil and must learn to live without her hands.

While these themes may be difficult to confront, it’s important to remember that they were meant to serve a purpose. Fairy tales were originally told to warn people about the dangers of the world and to teach moral lessons. By examining the darkness in classic fairy tales, we can gain a better understanding of the world that these stories came from and the values that they were meant to impart.

Sexual Themes in Fairy Tales

While most people associate fairy tales with innocent children’s stories, many classic fairy tales contain sexual themes that are often overlooked or misunderstood. These themes are deeply rooted in the cultural and historical contexts in which the tales were created, and they serve to reflect the attitudes towards sex and gender in those societies. In this section, we will explore some of the most common sexual themes found in classic fairy tales.

• Incest and Taboo Relationships
  One of the most prevalent sexual themes in fairy tales is incest, which is often portrayed as a taboo relationship. In many stories, a prince or princess falls in love with a sibling or other close relative, leading to tragic consequences. For example, in the story of “Snow White,” the evil queen tries to kill Snow White because she is jealous of her beauty, and in “The Little Mermaid,” the prince marries a girl who has traded her voice for a pair of legs, even though they have never met before. These stories suggest that sexual desire between close relatives is dangerous and forbidden.
• Virginity and Chastity
  Another common theme in fairy tales is the importance of virginity and chastity. In many stories, a female character’s virginity is closely guarded by her father or other protectors, and her loss of virginity is often portrayed as a tragic event. For example, in “Sleeping Beauty,” the prince must rescue the sleeping princess, who has been put to sleep by a wicked fairy because she pricked her finger on a spindle and lost her virginity. Similarly, in “Cinderella,” the prince searches for the girl who fits the glass slipper, which symbolizes her virginity. These stories suggest that women’s sexuality is something to be protected and controlled, rather than celebrated and explored.
• Rape and Abuse
  Some fairy tales also contain themes of rape and abuse, which are often portrayed as a means of punishing or testing female characters. In many stories, a princess or other female character is kidnapped or abducted by a male character, who then attempts to force her into a sexual relationship. For example, in “Rapunzel,” the prince climbs the girl’s hair to get to her tower, where he tries to have sex with her, even though she is terrified and unwilling. These stories suggest that women’s bodies are subject to the desires of men, and that they must endure sexual violence in order to prove their worth.

Overall, sexual themes in fairy tales reflect the complex and often troubling attitudes towards sex and gender in the societies that created them. While these stories may be entertaining and charming to modern audiences, it is important to recognize the darker undertones that lie beneath the surface.

Political and Social Commentary in Fairy Tales

In the world of fairy tales, the darkness is not always apparent on the surface. However, a closer examination of these stories reveals a wealth of political and social commentary that speaks to the struggles of the people who lived in the time in which they were written.

Subversion of Authority

Many fairy tales feature characters who challenge and subvert authority figures, such as kings and queens. In “Snow White,” for example, the queen is portrayed as a jealous and vain character who seeks to kill Snow White because she is a threat to her position. Similarly, in “Cinderella,” the stepmother and stepsisters are portrayed as cruel and abusive, while Cinderella herself is a kind and hardworking character who eventually rises above her circumstances.

These stories reflect the political and social tensions of their time, when monarchies were the dominant form of government and the nobility held significant power over the common people. By portraying authority figures in a negative light, these stories may have served as a way for people to express their frustrations with the ruling class and their desire for change.

Gender and Class Dynamics

Fairy tales also often address gender and class dynamics, particularly in the case of Cinderella and other “rags-to-riches” stories. These stories often feature female characters who are mistreated by their male counterparts or who are expected to conform to traditional gender roles. Cinderella, for example, is expected to perform household chores and is treated poorly by her stepmother and stepsisters because she is not seen as valuable or worthy of respect.

These stories also address class dynamics, as the characters often come from different social classes and face challenges related to wealth and status. In “Rapunzel,” for example, the princess is locked in a tower by her mother, the queen, because she is pregnant with a child who will be king. This story speaks to the political tensions of the time, when monarchies were often determined by birthright and succession was a matter of great importance.

The Importance of Community and Cooperation

Finally, many fairy tales emphasize the importance of community and cooperation, particularly in times of crisis. In “The Three Little Pigs,” for example, the pigs work together to build a house that is strong enough to withstand the Big Bad Wolf’s attacks. Similarly, in “The Little Red Riding Hood,” the woodsman comes to the rescue when Red Riding Hood is in danger.

These stories serve as a reminder that, in times of crisis, it is important to come together and support one another. They also emphasize the value of hard work and determination, as the characters in these stories often face significant challenges but persevere through their own efforts.

Overall, political and social commentary is a key element of many classic fairy tales. By examining these stories more closely, we can gain a better understanding of the struggles and tensions of the time in which they were written, as well as the values and beliefs of the people who told and retold these stories over the years.

The Audience for Fairy Tales

The Innocent Child

In the world of fairy tales, the innocent child has been a beloved figure for centuries. From the moment they are born, children are often introduced to the magical world of fairy tales, with their enchanting stories and endearing characters. However, the innocence of these stories may be a farce, as the dark origins of classic fairy tales suggest that they were not always meant for the pure hearts of children.

The True Meaning of Fairy Tales

At first glance, fairy tales appear to be simple stories meant to entertain and educate young minds. They teach children about morality, kindness, and the importance of being true to oneself. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that these stories are far more complex than they seem.

The Dark Roots of Fairy Tales

Fairy tales have a long and storied history, with roots that date back to ancient civilizations. These stories were often passed down through generations, changing and evolving with each retelling. While the stories themselves may have been intended for adults, the moral lessons they imparted were just as relevant to children as they were to adults.

The Moral Ambiguity of Fairy Tales

Fairy tales are often filled with ambiguous morals, with stories that are violent, gruesome, and sometimes even sexual in nature. These elements were not added to frighten children, but rather to make the stories more engaging and memorable. The true purpose of these stories was to teach children about the dangers of the world, and to prepare them for the challenges they would face in life.

The Dark Side of Fairy Tales

While fairy tales are often associated with lighthearted fun, they also contain a dark side that is often overlooked. Many of the most beloved stories contain elements of violence, death, and even sexuality. These elements are not meant to shock or disturb, but rather to teach children about the realities of life.

The Legacy of Fairy Tales

Despite their dark origins, fairy tales have become a beloved part of childhood for generations. They continue to be passed down from parent to child, teaching valuable lessons about morality, kindness, and the importance of being true to oneself. While the stories may have been intended for adults in their earliest incarnations, they have since become a cherished part of childhood for children around the world.

The Suspicious Parent

The suspicious parent is a character that is often present in the classic fairy tales. This character is portrayed as a protective figure who is skeptical of the motives of the other characters in the story. The suspicious parent is often depicted as being overly cautious and paranoid, and they are often portrayed as being suspicious of anyone who comes into contact with their child.

The suspicious parent is a common archetype in fairy tales because it serves as a reminder of the importance of parental protection. In many fairy tales, the protagonist is a child who is in danger, and the suspicious parent is the character who is most concerned with keeping the child safe. This character is often portrayed as being overly protective, and they are often depicted as being suspicious of anyone who comes into contact with their child.

One of the most well-known examples of the suspicious parent in fairy tales is the character of the Mother in Hansel and Gretel. In this story, the Mother is portrayed as being overly protective of her children, and she is constantly worried about their safety. She is depicted as being suspicious of anyone who comes into contact with her children, and she is always on the lookout for potential dangers.

Another example of the suspicious parent in fairy tales is the character of the Grandmother in Little Red Riding Hood. In this story, the Grandmother is portrayed as being a suspicious and paranoid character who is always on the lookout for potential dangers. She is depicted as being overly protective of her granddaughter, and she is constantly warning her about the dangers of the world.

The Interpretation of Fairy Tales

When considering the interpretation of fairy tales, it is important to acknowledge that these stories have evolved over time and have been adapted to suit the needs and desires of different audiences. In their earliest forms, fairy tales were often oral stories told by traveling bards or village elders, and they served as a way to entertain, educate, and moralize. These tales were passed down through generations, with each retelling adding new elements and adapting the story to fit the cultural and social norms of the time.

As the printing press was invented and literacy rates increased, fairy tales were transcribed and published in books, making them accessible to a wider audience. During the Victorian era, fairy tales underwent a significant transformation, with many stories being sanitized and revised to be more appropriate for children. The Brothers Grimm, for example, removed violent and sexual content from their fairy tales, focusing instead on the moral lessons and happily-ever-after endings that have become synonymous with the genre.

In recent years, scholars have begun to examine the original, unabridged versions of fairy tales, and they have discovered that these stories often contain dark, disturbing, and even gruesome elements. These original tales were not written specifically for children, but rather for a general audience that included both children and adults. It is important to consider the historical and cultural context in which these stories were created, as well as the role they played in the lives of the people who told and listened to them.

Some argue that the dark elements in fairy tales serve as a way to prepare children for the harsh realities of the world, while others contend that these stories are simply a reflection of the brutal nature of the time in which they were created. Regardless of the reason for their existence, it is clear that fairy tales have evolved over time to meet the needs and desires of their audience, and their interpretation is a reflection of the cultural and social norms of the time.

The Influence of Fairy Tales on Modern Literature and Film

The Grimm’s Fairy Tales

Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, German linguists and cultural researchers, are well-known for their collection of folk tales, “Children’s and Household Tales” (1812-1857), commonly referred to as “Grimm’s Fairy Tales.” The Grimm brothers believed that these tales were an essential part of the German heritage and aimed to preserve them from being lost. They collected these stories from various oral traditions and later revised them to suit the tastes of their contemporaries.

However, the original versions of these tales were much darker and gruesome than the sanitized versions most people are familiar with today. In the original stories, Cinderella’s stepsisters cut off their toes to fit into the glass slipper, and the Little Mermaid ultimately dies after shedding her fish tail and becoming human. The Grimm brothers made these changes to make the stories more appropriate for children.

Despite these changes, the influence of Grimm’s Fairy Tales on modern literature and film cannot be overstated. The tales have inspired countless adaptations, from Disney’s classic animated films to the darker retellings of recent years. For example, the 2014 film “Maleficent” presents a more nuanced portrayal of the Sleeping Beauty story, with the villainous Maleficent as the protagonist. Similarly, the 2016 film “Beauty and the Beast” provides a more complex exploration of the story’s themes of love and transformation.

The influence of Grimm’s Fairy Tales extends beyond the realm of film, as well. Many contemporary writers draw inspiration from these stories, using them to explore complex themes such as identity, power, and morality. For example, Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” borrows heavily from the story of Rapunzel, using the character of Offred to explore themes of oppression and resistance.

Overall, the dark and often unsettling nature of Grimm’s Fairy Tales has made them enduring classics that continue to inspire new adaptations and interpretations to this day. While the stories have been sanitized over time to make them more suitable for children, their original versions offer a glimpse into the darker side of human nature and the ways in which these tales have evolved over time.

Disney’s Adaptations

Disney’s adaptations of classic fairy tales have become a staple of modern popular culture. From Snow White to The Little Mermaid, these films have captured the hearts of children and adults alike. However, the impact of Disney’s adaptations goes beyond mere entertainment. These films have shaped the way we perceive and understand fairy tales, often sanitizing their darker elements and presenting them as appropriate only for children.

One of the most notable aspects of Disney’s adaptations is their focus on romance and happily-ever-after endings. In the original fairy tales, such as Snow White and Cinderella, the heroines often face gruesome or tragic endings. However, in Disney’s versions, these characters are portrayed as passive and helpless, relying on princes to save them from their troubles. This shift in focus reinforces traditional gender roles and perpetuates the idea that women should be rescued by men.

Moreover, Disney’s adaptations often omit or downplay the darker themes present in the original fairy tales. For example, in the original version of Hansel and Gretel, the children are forced to eat their own father, who has been transformed into a cannibal by a witch. In Disney’s adaptation, this gruesome scene is omitted entirely, and the witch is portrayed as a comical character rather than a terrifying villain. This sanitization of the original stories has led to a distorted understanding of their true meaning and purpose.

However, it is important to note that Disney’s adaptations have also introduced new audiences to classic fairy tales, and have helped to preserve these stories for future generations. Additionally, some of Disney’s adaptations, such as The Lion King, have incorporated elements of traditional African folklore, highlighting the universal nature of these stories and their ability to transcend cultural boundaries.

In conclusion, while Disney’s adaptations of classic fairy tales have had a significant impact on modern literature and film, they have also perpetuated a distorted understanding of these stories. By sanitizing their darker elements and reinforcing traditional gender roles, Disney’s adaptations have shaped the way we perceive and understand fairy tales, often presenting them as appropriate only for children.

The Preservation of Fairy Tales

Fairy tales have been passed down through generations, and while many have been altered and adapted to suit the tastes of different eras, the essence of these stories remains the same. The preservation of fairy tales is an important aspect of understanding their dark origins and their original intent.

The Role of Oral Tradition

Before the advent of written language, fairy tales were transmitted orally from one generation to the next. The storytellers would modify the tales to suit their audiences, and the stories evolved over time as they were passed down. The oral tradition of fairy tales has been critical in preserving the original intent of these stories, even as they have been adapted and modified over time.

The Importance of Collecting and Documenting Fairy Tales

With the rise of print culture, many of the world’s fairy tales were recorded and published for the first time. Collectors like the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault were instrumental in preserving these stories and making them available to a wider audience. Their collections, along with other collections, have been influential in shaping the way we think about fairy tales today.

The Role of Modern Technology in Preserving Fairy Tales

In recent years, technology has played a significant role in preserving and disseminating fairy tales. The internet has made it possible to access a vast array of fairy tales from around the world, many of which have been translated into different languages. Digital archives have been established to preserve these stories, and new technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality are being used to bring these tales to life in new and exciting ways.

In conclusion, the preservation of fairy tales is essential in understanding their dark origins and original intent. From the oral tradition to modern technology, the efforts of collectors, storytellers, and technologists have ensured that these stories continue to be passed down and enjoyed by generations to come.

The Continuing Relevance of Fairy Tales

Although fairy tales were originally meant for adults, their enduring appeal has allowed them to transcend generations and continue to hold relevance in modern literature and film. The themes and motifs present in these stories have been reinterpreted and adapted to reflect contemporary societal issues, making them a rich source of inspiration for modern storytelling.

One reason for the continuing relevance of fairy tales is their ability to tap into universal human experiences. The struggles and triumphs of characters like Cinderella, Snow White, and Little Red Riding Hood resonate with audiences of all ages, as they confront challenges such as adversity, betrayal, and self-discovery. By exploring these themes, fairy tales offer a shared language for understanding the human experience, allowing readers and viewers to connect with the stories on a deep emotional level.

Another factor contributing to the ongoing relevance of fairy tales is their role in shaping cultural identity. These stories often reflect the values and beliefs of the societies that produce them, serving as a reflection of the collective consciousness. By examining the ways in which fairy tales have evolved over time, scholars and enthusiasts can gain insight into the cultural, social, and political climate of the periods in which they were created. Additionally, the continued retelling and adaptation of these stories in modern media highlights their enduring influence on popular culture.

Furthermore, fairy tales have provided a rich source of inspiration for modern literature and film, as authors and filmmakers draw from these timeless stories to create new narratives. The themes and motifs present in fairy tales have been reinterpreted and adapted to explore contemporary issues, such as gender roles, sexuality, and social inequality. This process of adaptation and reinterpretation allows these classic stories to remain relevant and engaging for modern audiences, ensuring their ongoing presence in popular culture.

In conclusion, the continuing relevance of fairy tales can be attributed to their ability to tap into universal human experiences, their role in shaping cultural identity, and their enduring influence on modern literature and film. As these stories continue to be retold and adapted, they will undoubtedly remain an essential part of our cultural heritage, captivating audiences for generations to come.

The Debate Over Their Original Intent

One of the most debated topics in the realm of fairy tales is their original intent. Scholars and enthusiasts alike have been debating whether these stories were meant for children or adults, and the answer is not as simple as one might think.

• Theories on their Original Audience
  • 1. Childhood Appropriate
    • This theory suggests that fairy tales were meant to be stories for children, passed down through generations to entertain and educate young minds. They were used as a way to teach moral lessons, social norms, and values.
  • 2. Adult Amusement
    • On the other hand, some believe that fairy tales were meant for adults, serving as cautionary tales to remind them of the consequences of their actions. They were used as a way to comment on social issues, warn against moral decay, and reflect the fears and anxieties of their society.
  • 3. Both Sides of the Argument
    • The truth is likely somewhere in between. Fairy tales have evolved over time, with different versions being adapted for different audiences. Some tales may have started as stories for children, but evolved into darker, more complex narratives as they were passed down through generations. Conversely, some tales may have been created as satire or commentary for adults, but were later sanitized for younger audiences.
• The Role of Context
  • 1. Changing Societal Values
    • The values and beliefs of society have changed significantly over time, leading to a shift in the way fairy tales are perceived and interpreted. What may have been seen as a simple children’s story in the past may now be viewed as having darker, more complex themes.
  • 2. Literary and Artistic Interpretations
    • Artists and writers have also played a role in shaping the way fairy tales are perceived. Some have chosen to retell the stories in a more child-friendly manner, while others have embraced the darker, more complex themes. This has led to a wide range of interpretations and adaptations, making it difficult to determine their original intent.

In conclusion, the debate over the original intent of fairy tales is a complex one, with evidence supporting both the idea that they were meant for children and the idea that they were meant for adults. The true answer may be a combination of both, with these stories evolving and adapting over time to fit the needs and values of different societies and audiences.

The Importance of Understanding the Darkness in Fairy Tales

Examining the Dark Elements in Classic Fairy Tales

• Violence: Many classic fairy tales contain scenes of violence, including murder, mutilation, and torture.
• Sexuality: Some fairy tales include sexual themes and innuendos, which may have been inserted to appease adult audiences.
• Subversion of Morality: The characters in fairy tales often break moral codes and engage in acts that would be considered unacceptable in polite society.

The Psychological Significance of Darkness in Fairy Tales

• Catharsis: Fairy tales often deal with themes of death, loss, and tragedy, which can serve as a form of catharsis for the reader or listener.
• Archetypes: The characters and plot elements in fairy tales often represent archetypes that are present in the human psyche, allowing readers to explore their own unconscious thoughts and feelings.
• Moral Lessons: While many fairy tales end happily, they often include lessons about the consequences of bad behavior, the importance of hard work and perseverance, and the dangers of greed and envy.

The Evolution of Fairy Tales from Oral Tradition to Print

• Oral Roots: Many classic fairy tales were originally told orally, and were often modified and adapted by different storytellers over time.
• Print Standardization: With the advent of print, fairy tales were collected and published in books, and were often standardized and censored to make them more appropriate for children.
• The Impact of Print on Adult Audiences: Despite the sanitization of fairy tales for children, the original, darker versions of these stories continued to be passed down through oral tradition and remained popular among adult audiences.

The Dark Side of Disney: The Sanitization of Fairy Tales for Children

• The Disneyfication of Fairy Tales: Walt Disney’s adaptations of classic fairy tales have become iconic, but they often omit or soften the darker elements of the original stories.
• The Effects of Sanitization: While the Disneyfied versions of fairy tales may be more appropriate for young children, they also remove much of the complexity and depth of the original stories.
• The Value of the Original Versions: Despite the sanitization of fairy tales, the original versions continue to be popular among adult readers and remain an important part of our cultural heritage.

FAQs

1. What is the topic of the article?

The topic of the article is “Exploring the Dark Origins of Classic Fairy Tales: Were They Meant for Adults?” The article discusses the history and original intent of classic fairy tales, challenging the common belief that they were solely meant for children.

2. What is the main argument presented in the article?

The main argument presented in the article is that classic fairy tales were not originally intended for children, but rather for adults. The author suggests that the dark and violent themes present in many fairy tales were meant to convey important life lessons and warnings to adults, rather than simply entertaining children.

3. What are some examples of dark themes in classic fairy tales?

Some examples of dark themes in classic fairy tales include murder, mutilation, incest, and cannibalism. These themes are often overlooked or sanitized in modern adaptations of the stories, but were originally included to convey important messages and lessons to adults.

4. What is the historical context of classic fairy tales?

Classic fairy tales have their roots in oral storytelling traditions from ancient times, and were later collected and published in books. Many of the stories were passed down through generations and adapted by different cultures, reflecting the social and political climate of the time.

5. What is the significance of studying the dark origins of fairy tales?

Studying the dark origins of fairy tales can provide insight into the cultural and historical context in which they were created, as well as challenge our modern perceptions of these stories as solely childish entertainment. It can also reveal important life lessons and morals that may have been lost or overlooked in modern adaptations.

FAIRYTALES THAT WERE ORIGINALLY MESSED UP!! #Shorts