Why We're Still Obsessed With Fairy Tales

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 17TH OCT 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com

Fairy tales have enchanted humanity for centuries, surviving countless cultural shifts and technological revolutions. From the pages of ancient folklore to modern film adaptations, these timeless stories continue to captivate both children and adults. But why do we remain so obsessed with them? The answer lies in psychology, symbolism, and the deep emotional truths they reveal.

At their core, fairy tales speak to universal human experiences—love, fear, hope, loss, and transformation. They distill life’s complexities into simple yet profound narratives where good battles evil, courage conquers fear, and justice prevails. Psychologists like Bruno Bettelheim argued that fairy tales help children process emotions and internal conflicts in a safe, symbolic way. They teach resilience, showing that even the smallest hero or most downtrodden soul can overcome impossible odds.

For adults, fairy tales offer something equally powerful: escape and reflection. In an increasingly uncertain world, these stories remind us of wonder, magic, and the belief that happy endings are possible. They reconnect us with imagination, something often lost in the rush of modern life. Moreover, they adapt easily to contemporary values—today’s retellings often feature empowered heroines, moral ambiguity, and social commentary, proving their endless relevance.

Culturally, fairy tales serve as mirrors of society. From Disney animations to dark reimaginings by filmmakers and authors, each generation reshapes these tales to reflect its hopes and fears. They offer both nostalgia and reinvention—a bridge between the past and present.

Ultimately, our fascination with fairy tales endures because they speak to the dreamer in all of us. Beneath their enchantment lies a profound truth: no matter how dark the forest, light and hope always await at the end of the story. That promise keeps us returning to them again and again.