3 weeks
2-3 hours per week
FREE - Optional upgrade available
Literature
About this course
On this course, you will look deeper into the enchanting and surprisingly dark themes of several well-known European fairy tales.
What were the authors thinking? What were the cultural and personal concerns that have shaped these stories? What are the readers being asked to believe?
By considering the historical context of fairy tales and examining the characters, styles, and plots, you will discover that the intended morals of the original stories may not be exactly what you first thought.
What topics will you cover?
- Exploring fairy tales
- Interpreting literary narratives
- Cultural context in literature
What you'll achieve
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...
- Demonstrate close acquaintance with three famous fairy tales.
- Explain the significance of cultural contexts in shaping fairy tales.
- Interpret narratives at basic level.
Who is the course for?
This course is for anyone interested in fairy tales and literary analysis, including reading enthusiasts, storytellers, and creative writers.
Meet the instructors
Associate Professor Caroline Webb
Associate Professor Caroline Webb works at the University of Newcastle, Australia, where she specialises in English literature since 1900, especially fantasy literature.
Like this open course?
Take the full semester 10 unit course
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.