What Still Common Fairy Tales Have the Darkest Origins?

Among the folklore and fairy tales that have captured the imagination of generations, some tales stand out for their dark and haunting origins. Many familiar stories, such as those involving a young woman being married to an older stranger, delve into themes that are far from cheery. Two such tales are the Bluebeard type and the Animal Bridegroom. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Bluebeard tale, which shares a particularly grim history rooted in real-life atrocities committed by Gilles de Rais in the 15th century.

The Bluebeard Type Tales

In fairy tales like the Bluebeard, a young woman is often married to an older, mysterious stranger. The plot typically involves the bride discovering that he has killed his previous wives, and she must navigate a dangerous and often life-threatening situation. The story line is not exactly cheery, but its origins are far more terrifying than the tales themselves suggest.

Bluebeard: The Dark Origins

The tale of Bluebeard is based on a 15th-century Breton nobleman named Gilles de Rais. Known for his young age at the time of his crimes and his subsequent rise to high status, de Rais initially appeared to have a promising career. He joined Joan of Arc on her quest to liberate France from the English, and as a result, he was made Marshal of France for his efforts. He also married an heiress, gaining substantial wealth.

However, beneath this veneer of success lay a dark side. Gilles de Rais was known for his gruesome and systematic crimes. He would kidnap young boys, especially those from peasant families, who could not retaliate due to societal hierarchies and lack of legal recourse. In 1440, his actions became too egregious, leading to his arrest after he kidnapped a priest. During his trial, shocking revelations emerged. It was revealed that over the years, de Rais had kidnapped and tortured numerous young boys, violating them in ways that are too graphic to detail here. The court's estimate of his victims is over 100, although the reliability of his confession made under threat of torture remains uncertain.

Ultimately, Gilles de Rais faced the consequences of his actions. He was hanged in 1440, and his body was later burned. This grim history forms the backbone of the Bluebeard fairy tale, giving it a depth of horror and intrigue that makes it stand out among other storytelling traditions.

The Animal Bridegroom

Another common and intriguing fairy tale type is the Animal Bridegroom. In these stories, a young woman is also married to an older stranger, often portrayed as an animal. The tales frequently involve supernatural elements, but the theme of danger and potential betrayal is consistent with the Bluebeard type. The underlying dark origins of the Animal Bridegroom tales are less well-documented, but like the Bluebeard stories, they touch on themes of power, manipulation, and the unknown.

Conclusion

The Bluebeard type and Animal Bridegroom tales offer fascinating glimpses into the darker side of human nature and society. While these stories are often told for entertainment and moral lessons, their real-world counterparts demonstrate the complexity and often terrifying reality behind the fantastical narratives. Understanding these origins can deepen our appreciation of the layers hidden within these beloved fairy tales.