Alchemical Journey into the Divine in Victorian Fairy Tales
Emilia Wieliczko-Paprota
Studia Religiologica 2018 DOI: 10.4467/20844077sr.18.003.9492 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that alchemical symbolism forms a vivid and important tradition in Victorian fairy tales, contrary to Jungian analysts who conceived alchemy as forgotten knowledge. Contends that the first stage of the alchemical opus appears in fairy tale symbols and that Victorian and alchemical paths of self-transformation are similar, reflecting the importance of spirituality in Victorian times. |
Abstract
This article demonstrates the importance of alchemical symbolism in Victorian fairy tales. Contrary to Jungian analysts who conceived alchemy as forgotten knowledge, this study shows the vivid tradition of alchemical symbolism in Victorian literature. This work takes the readers through the first stage of the alchemical opus reflected in fairy tale symbols, explains the psychological and spiritual purposes of alchemy and helps them to understand the Victorian visions of mystical transformation. It emphasises the importance of spirituality in Victorian times and accounts for the similarity between Victorian and alchemical paths of transformation of the self.