THE PSYCHOLOGY OF FAIRY TALES

Fairy tales often present the challenges that we face in life and show ways of overcoming struggles and uncertainties.  Working on a fairy tale is rewarding because, like a dream, it lifts a veil on what is not immediately obvious to the rational mind.  

The next fairy tale for the group is Brothers Grimm “THE WHITE SNAKE”.  This is a significant and satisfying tale.  Overcome with curiosity the ‘trusted servant’ lifts the lid of a hidden dish served daily to the wise King.  On the platter he finds and tastes the white snake; this gives him the ability to understand the language of animals.  With courage he sets out on an adventure and overcomes tasks along his path.   This story can be likened to following an inner imperative to move on. 

This fairy tale is packed with valuable images, symbols and meaning that we will carefully explore.   We will listen, like the ‘trusted servant’ to the promptings of the instincts, to the creative unconscious and the language of archetypes.

We will look at how the story maps the process of individuation, the urge toward psychological wholeness.  We will also look at our separation from the natural world.  During the three sessions, we will draw on the writings of C G Jung and Marie Louise von Franz.

There are two options to participate, either:

Thursdays: 5^th, 19^th February and 5^th March 2026 – 4.00pm to 6.00pm

Saturdays:  7^th, 21^st February and 7^th March 2026 – 10.00am to 12.00pm

If you would like to participate but are unable to attend a session it is possible by arrangement to mix Thursdays and Saturdays. 

The fee for the 3 sessions is £120.00.