“Fairy tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.”  
G.K. Chesterton
 
The overarching concept driving this course of study is influence, namely the way society
and literature are related and how they influence one another. German myths (and famous fairytales) present a unique way
for students to consider the interactions between society and literature. The original stories have
been recreated in so many ways over the years, and each reimagining of a fairy tale consciously
or unconsciously reflects what has become important to the society in which the fairy tale is
produced. 

The goal of each included lesson plan is to take students’ prior, surface-level
knowledge of fairy tales and use it to spark a new understanding of these traditional tales, their
significance, and the ways and reasons they have changed over time. 

This will take a fun but serious look into the history that inspired a lot of common fairytales and folklore in global/American history. We will dive into the culture that surrounded the inspiration of their creation. It will be interactive, fun, and include class participation.

Week 1: The origin of German Fairytales, History & Culture
Week 2: Hansel, Gretel & Famine
Week 3: Rapunzel & Religious Conversion
Week 4: Snow White & Child Miners
Week 5: Sleeping Beauty & an Ancient Story of Being Barren
Week 6:Belle & The Wolf Boy