Buried Treasures: The Power of Political Fairy Tales

Jack Zipes has spent decades uncovering political fairy tales of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, profiling their writers and illustrators, and demonstrating their power to confront political oppression and economic exploitation. These tales offer alternative worlds that test the ethics and morals of the real world and expose hidden truths, and can give us tools to help us survive.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Fascinating profiles of modern writers and artists who tapped the political potential of fairy tales

Jack Zipes has dedicated decades to his remarkable journey as a "scholarly scavenger," uncovering forgotten fairy tales hidden in libraries, flea markets, used bookstores, and the vast realm of the internet. Through his tireless efforts, he has introduced countless readers to these extraordinary works and their authors, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world.

In his captivating book, Buried Treasures, Zipes unveils his deep passion for unearthing political fairy tales from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Within its pages, he presents fascinating profiles of more than a dozen of these writers and illustrators, shedding light on their remarkable contributions and the importance of their work in today's society.

These writers and artists, armed with their extraordinary talents, used their creations as a powerful tool to confront political oppression and economic exploitation. They ventured into alternative, imaginative worlds, challenging the ethics and morals of the real world and unveiling hidden truths. Among the remarkable figures we encounter in Buried Treasures are:

Édouard Laboulaye, a jurist renowned for his acute fairy tales that delved into themes of justice. Charles Godfrey Leland, a folklorist who discovered enchanting realms in tales of Native Americans, witches, and Roma. Kurt Schwitters, an artist who crafted satirical, antiauthoritarian stories that mirrored the political climate of his time. Mariette Lydis, a painter who captured the essence of lost and found souls, offering a poignant reflection on human experiences. Lisa Tetzner, a playwright who dramatized the exploitation faced by marginalized communities, highlighting the urgent need for social change. Felix Salten, a writer who unveiled the profound symbolism behind Bambi's dangerous life in the forest, delving into themes of nature, survival, and the human-nature relationship. Gianni Rodari, a visionary storyteller who demonstrated the political and insightful nature of fantasy stories, offering a mirror to the world and providing valuable insights for personal growth.

Buried Treasures showcases the extraordinary power of political fairy tales. It not only enriches our understanding of the world but also equips us with valuable tools for survival. These fictional realities offer a respite from the challenges we face in the real world, providing a space for reflection, empathy, and inspiration.

Through his meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Jack Zipes has opened our eyes to the hidden treasures of political fairy tales. His book serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of these tales and the profound impact they can have on our lives. As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of imagination and creativity, let us be reminded of the power of storytelling to shape our world and inspire positive change.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 149 x 223 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691244730