Week 1
Lesson 1
Introduction to Fairy Tales
In the first week, we will provide an overview of the course structure and objectives, setting the stage for an immersive journey into the world of fairy tales. We'll delve into the origins of fairy tales, exploring their historical context and cultural significance. The week will also include a discussion on the purpose and impact of fairy tales, examining how they have influenced societies and individuals throughout history.
 Week 2
Lesson 2
Princesses and Royalty - Cinderella and Snow White
We will focus on the classic tales of Cinderella and Snow White. Students will read and analyze the original versions and modern adaptations of these stories. The discussions will center around themes of jealousy, vanity, and cruelty, considering the historical context and societal implications of these tales. We'll explore how these themes have been portrayed over time and their relevance today.
 Week 3
Lesson 3
Princesses and Royalty - Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast
We will explore the darker elements of the original tales of Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast. We will examine in detail themes of enchantment and transformation curses. Students will compare these original tales with their Disney adaptations, discussing the changes and their impact on the narrative and characters.
 Week 4
Lesson 4
Princesses and Royalty - Rapunzel and The Frog Prince
We will analyze the themes of imprisonment and transformation in the stories of Rapunzel and The Frog Prince. The discussion will also cover gender roles and expectations as depicted in these tales. Students will reflect on how these themes have evolved and their significance in modern interpretations.
 Week 5
Lesson 5
Heroes and Adventures - Jack and the Beanstalk and The Brave Little Tailor
Will examine the hero archetype and adventure motifs in Jack and the Beanstalk and The Brave Little Tailor. We'll discuss the morality and consequences of the characters' actions, considering the broader implications of these stories. Students will analyze how these tales reflect societal values and norms.
 Week 6
Lesson 6
Heroes and Adventures - Puss in Boots and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves
We will explore the themes of cunning and wit as heroic traits in Puss in Boots and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. The discussions will also touch on themes of greed and justice, analyzing how these tales convey moral lessons and societal values.
 Week 7
Lesson 7
Transformations - The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid
We will focus on the themes of physical and emotional transformations in The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid. Students will discuss themes of self-acceptance and sacrifice, reflecting on how these stories convey important life lessons and personal growth.
 Week 8
Lesson 8
Tricksters - Rumpelstiltskin and Anansi the Spider
We will examine the role of trickster characters in fairy tales, focusing on Rumpelstiltskin and Anansi the Spider. The discussions will cover themes of deception and intelligence, analyzing how these characters use their cunning to navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
 Week 9
Lesson 9
Cautionary Tales - Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel
We will explore the cautionary tales of Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel. The focus will be on themes of danger, survival, and the darker side of human nature. Students will discuss the moral lessons of these stories and their relevance in contemporary society.
 Week 10
Lesson 10
Anthropomorphism - The Ugly Duckling and The Wolf and the Seven Young Kids
We will analyze the use of anthropomorphism in fairy tales, focusing on The Ugly Duckling and The Wolf and the Seven Young Kids. The discussions will cover themes of identity and transformation, exploring how these tales use animal characters to convey complex human emotions and experiences.
 Week 11
Lesson 11
Magic and Enchantment - The Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Snow Queen
We will examine the significance of magical elements in fairy tales, focusing on The Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Snow Queen. Students will discuss the impact of enchantment on the characters and the narrative, analyzing how magic shapes the stories and their outcomes.
 Week 12
Lesson 12
Morality and Virtue - The Emperor's New Clothes and The Boy Who Cried Wolf
We will analyze the presentation of moral lessons in The Emperor's New Clothes and The Boy Who Cried Wolf. Themes of honesty, pride, and deception will be explored in detail, discussing how these tales convey important ethical and moral values.
 Week 13
Lesson 13
Kindness and Generosity - The Elves and the Shoemaker and The Goose Girl
We will explore themes of kindness and generosity in The Elves and the Shoemaker and The Goose Girl. Students will discuss the rewards of acts of kindness, reflecting on themes of humility and generosity as depicted in these tales.
 Week 14
Lesson 14
Overcoming Evil - The Juniper Tree, Bluebeard, and The Pied Piper of Hamelin
We will focus on the characters' journeys to overcome evil forces in The Juniper Tree, Bluebeard, and The Pied Piper of Hamelin. We will examine the dark and often gruesome elements of these tales, discussing how the protagonists face and conquer malevolent characters. The discussions will cover themes of resilience, courage, and the moral implications of these stories, reflecting on their lasting impact and relevance.
 Week 15
Lesson 15
Presentation Week
In our final week, students will present their chosen fairy tales, showcasing their understanding and analysis of the stories. We'll review the course content, reflecting on the key themes and lessons learned throughout the journey. Students will have the opportunity to share their insights and discuss how the course has deepened their appreciation of fairy tales.