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Illustration of a fairy by Luis Ricardo Falero, 1888

Fairy

Origin: Celtic/ European Folklore

Combination: human + wings

Classification: Insect

Other Names: Faerie, Fay, Fae, Fey, Fair folk, Pixie, Sprite

Associations: magic, fairy rings, trickery 

 

Fairies are usually depicted as small humanoid creatures, often

women, with wings that are reminiscent of those of a butterfly or dragonfly, though some versions do not have wings at all. They are usually associated with magic and mischief, and are portrayed as both benevolent and malicious in varying tales. They exist in the folklore

and mythology of a multitude of cultures around the world, though

their characteristics and appearances can vary significantly. 

 

Fairies are believed to inhabit forests, meadows, hillsides, and other natural landscapes. They are often associated with granting wishes, casting spells, and playing tricks on humans. They are said to have a close connection to the natural world and often have the ability to communicate with animals and plants. Some are claimed to have the ability to shape-shift, though it is not their defining characteristic.

One of the most famous fairies is Tinkerbell from the tale of Peter Pan.

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Significant
Literary
Mentions

Medieval

Legend of King Arthur  

• Fable of Sleeping Beauty 

Modern

• Tale of the Tooth Fairy

• The Faerie Queene – Edmund Spenser

A Midsummer Night’s Dream – William Shakespeare

The Adventures of Pinocchio – Carlo Collodi

Peter Pan – J.M. Barrie

Artemis Fowl – Eoin Colfer

Artistic 
Representations
Throughout
History

Modern
Takes from
Cinema, TV,
& Music
Videos

Fairies in Modern Media

Fairies in Modern Media

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