{VIRTUAL} The Magic of Trees in Fairy Tales

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In times of such upheaval in the world, we need anchors and the feeling of being grounded to the ancient world. Trees are one such conduit by which we may feel connection and interdependence. Furthermore, whether they are grand old trees at the center of a forest or a tree newly sprouted, watered by the tears of its gardener, trees hold a magical place in fairy tales. In addition, when we feel lost and confused, or fearful and anxious, trees may be asked to be our protectors and protectresses. This lecture will bring trees and fairy tales together in an exploration of several classic fairy tales from different eras, authors, and parts of the world, that center on trees as protectors and guardians. Some attention will be given to scientific research about the sentience of trees and their behavior, which will show that what we may think of as fairy-tale magic when it comes to trees may actually be scientifically based. My hope for the class is that you will look at trees with newfound knowledge and appreciation for the way they ground and watch over us. I’d love for you to be inspired by this class to make connections with trees in your world, on your land, on walks or hikes you take, to name them, to form relationships, and perhaps even to cultivate growth of new trees. Who knows, maybe you’ll even be inspired to write your own fairy tale incorporating trees!

YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Susan Redington Bobby, the founder of Professor of Words, LLC, is an online teacher, a freelance editor, a writing mentor, and a tutor. Her specialty is being able to read people on a deeper level through their writing, and she has recently completed a certificate course on integrative somatic trauma therapy.  She is a retired professor of English with expertise in fairy tales, adolescent literature, goddess archetypes, magical realism, creative writing, and film studies. She is the author of Beyond His Dark Materials, the editor of Fairy Tales Reimagined, and co-editor of The Artemis Archetype in Popular Culture. The Series Editor of Tales from Fiddler’s Green, she also occasionally publishes creative fiction. She is currently studying the Bardic Course in Druidry from OBOD. She maintains Mellie’s Grove, a certified NWF backyard wildlife habitat that is home to a rescued and small stabilized cat family and all manner of wildlife.