But what are fairy tales?

Are they just short, cute stories that kids spend their time with or fall asleep at night to go to bed? Of course not. Fairy tales are stories with which children, in the very defining period of their lives during which they form the sense of identity and roles, perceive gender, its role in society and gain awareness of all the above.

But what exactly are the classic fairy tales we read as children?

They are stories of violence, often inconceivable savagery, and women in constant danger who are constantly waiting for the man to save them. Ideally, to marry them, the wedding with the prince is the ultimate happy ending. A five-year-old will learn to consider these stereotypes, relationships and behaviours normal.

In a society that is constantly and rapidly changing and gaining more and more awareness in matters of identity, gender and roles, what is the use of the myth of the “strong” boy and the “weak” girl? How can a girl claim equality when she learns that the ultimate protagonist – and her saviour – in every story is a man? Why are the most dynamic female characters the bad guys (evil witch, stepmom), while the protagonist is obedient and speechless? How will a boy gain empathy when he learns from a baby that his role is to be in the spotlight because of his muscular rum and de facto social superiority?