Module 5: Finding Ourselves in Fairy Tales

Introduction

• Focus on the return part of the fairy tale heroine's journey.
• Aim to integrate stages of the heroine's journey into personal life stories.
• The return is a challenging, often mishandled part of the journey.

The Concept of Return

• Questions to Consider:
  • What are you returning to?
  • With what experiences or changes?
  • Who are you now as you return?
• Return requires commitment and is not an easy conclusion.
• It's about understanding the journey's purpose and personal transformation.

Life Span and Journey

• The fairy tale heroine's journey applies to both entire lifespan and individual life segments.
• Focus here is on the entire lifespan.
• Recap of previous modules:
  • Beginnings and challenges of the first half of life.
  • Separation, trials, relationships, archetypal feminine encounters.
  • Midlife marks the beginning of the return.

Midlife as the Beginning of Return

• Significance of Midlife:
  • Shift from outward focus to inward search for meaning and purpose.
  • Midlife awakening involves profound changes.
  • Often coincides with existential questioning and perimenopause for women.
• Fairy Tale Illustrations:
  • Stories like the Handless Maiden represent this journey.
  • Metaphorically shows a journey to finding one's true self.

Aspects of the Return

• Return to Self:
  • Often involves personal recognition, transformation (e.g., Snow White, Sleeping Beauty).
  • Jung's concept of individuation begins at midlife.

Fairy Tale Endings and Realizations

• Various fairy tale endings illustrate different forms of return:
  • Bearing gifts or wisdom.
  • Redemptive or dark endings.
  • Return to self often emphasized.

Fairy Tales of Transformation

• Fox Woman Story:

  • Metaphor for midlife transformation and embracing new identity.

• Selkie Story:

  • Resonance with midlife transition, yearning for authentic self.

Individuation and Return

• The Handless Maiden:
  • Long fairy tale illustrating a woman's journey through significant life phases.
  • Emphasis on gaining autonomy, creativity, and self-recognition.

Midlife Crisis vs. Transition

• Described as a transition rather than a crisis.
• Developmental purpose: awakening to one's true self.

Return to Home and Wider World

• Home:
  • Return can mean returning to a place or to oneself.
  • Importance of understanding one's place in the larger world narrative.

Conclusion

• The return is about finding meaning and purpose in life.
• Each person's return is unique, involving personal growth and transformation.
• Encouragement to reflect on how these stories and themes apply personally.