Pellissippi State: Fairy tales topic of Nov. 6 Faculty Lecture Series talk

Trolls and mermaids, elves and giants. Why do fairy tales remain so enduring and endearing to adults? What basic truths do the stories teach?

These are the questions to be discussed at Pellissippi State’s next Faculty Lecture Series presentation, one of many offerings in The Arts at Pellissippi State’s yearlong slate of events. The series brings to the community cultural activities ranging from music and theatre to international celebrations, lectures, and the fine arts.

Marilyn Sue Yamin, an associate professor and the program coordinator of Composition in the English Department, delivers the lecture “Fairy Tales Aren’t Just for Children” at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov 6. The free event, which takes place in the Goins Building Auditorium on the Hardin Valley Campus, is open to the public.

“I’ll start with the origin and background of fairy tales,” said Yamin, “and discuss some of the critical and psychological theories that have been advanced about why fairy tales are so persistent—not just in American culture but all over the world—and why they remain so popular with adults.

“What is it about fairy tales that intrigues us, that keeps these stories prevalent in our lives, in the media, as movies and plays and television shows? We use fairy tales in all forms, past childhood.”

Part of the enduring popularity of fairy tales may be linked to their relevance to humanity.

“There is a basic truth in these tales that rings true through all cultures and keeps them forever young,” she said.

In her lecture, Yamin also will discuss the unique art form of fairy tales: how they can be adapted, transformed and rewritten, yet still remain true to the core of their story. She’ll discuss familiar fairy tales and characters, as well as read a short 20th century fairy tale that might be new to the audience.
