I taught the old myths to my 7th graders in a public school. They loved it! We also read Aschenputtel and compared it to the Disney version. Even my very reluctant readers found themselves drawn into these gritty stories. At the end of our study, they all chose one character to explore and create a poster and a clay figure. It wasn’t in the curriculum, but nevertheless…
Someday, they will hear references to Icarus when watching the musical Hamilton and they will understand what many will not.
Thanks for this article. I wish I could give all students the experience of exploring mythology and fairy tales.
Great article. I think a real retelling of ancient myths, with all their tragedy and catharsis, might also help young people mature in respect for and commitment to the culture that's bringing them up. The feeling of being coddled beyond early childhood inspires a kind of contempt in healthy kids.
Is there an age limit to this though? Truly does a 3 year old have the capability to take what they understand and then move on? Does this value start more around the age of reason?
What of movies and tv shows that show violence/intensity? Is there some difference to being read to and watching something on tv to a young child’s mind?
Only wondering not disagreeing, very much enjoyed the article. 🤍
“The original Grimm version understood that cruelty invites a reckoning…When everything is a joke, nothing is serious. When every danger resolves neatly, danger means nothing.” And this is everywhere.
Interesting, never knew those endings to some of the old fairy tales.
I think that was part of Game of Thrones' appeal -- in my recollection, it was one of the only series that wasn't afraid to kill major characters and have what felt like real choices and consequences
I taught the old myths to my 7th graders in a public school. They loved it! We also read Aschenputtel and compared it to the Disney version. Even my very reluctant readers found themselves drawn into these gritty stories. At the end of our study, they all chose one character to explore and create a poster and a clay figure. It wasn’t in the curriculum, but nevertheless…
Someday, they will hear references to Icarus when watching the musical Hamilton and they will understand what many will not.
Thanks for this article. I wish I could give all students the experience of exploring mythology and fairy tales.
Sounds like you’re an amazing teacher. Thank you!
Great article. I think a real retelling of ancient myths, with all their tragedy and catharsis, might also help young people mature in respect for and commitment to the culture that's bringing them up. The feeling of being coddled beyond early childhood inspires a kind of contempt in healthy kids.
Is there an age limit to this though? Truly does a 3 year old have the capability to take what they understand and then move on? Does this value start more around the age of reason?
What of movies and tv shows that show violence/intensity? Is there some difference to being read to and watching something on tv to a young child’s mind?
Only wondering not disagreeing, very much enjoyed the article. 🤍
“The original Grimm version understood that cruelty invites a reckoning…When everything is a joke, nothing is serious. When every danger resolves neatly, danger means nothing.” And this is everywhere.
Makes you think of Marvel movies.
Interesting, never knew those endings to some of the old fairy tales.
I think that was part of Game of Thrones' appeal -- in my recollection, it was one of the only series that wasn't afraid to kill major characters and have what felt like real choices and consequences