Ruth B. Bottigheimer is a leading historian of European fairy tales, whose scholarship traces the origins of modern plot structures and their evolution across centuries. She investigates how fairy tale narratives transform and reflect societal and cultural norms, focusing on the dynamic interplay between magic and characters throughout history. Her work illuminates the enduring connections between the fairy tale tradition and other forms of cultural expression, including film, commerce, and literature.
Challenging conventional beliefs about fairy tales, this book delves into their true origins and the ways they have been passed down through generations. It uncovers the historical context and cultural influences that shaped these beloved stories, providing a fresh perspective on their development and significance in literature.