Many of the dreams presented in our group will probably contain motifs similar to those in our fairytale repertoire. That there are often such similarities is no coincidence, because there is a
| common archetypal core in the personal and in the collective. |
Recognizing such similarities can be very enriching for our group work. In addition, a dream presented can be amplified by a similar fairytale when the two are compared. The group can also consider how the story could have played out differently than it is usually told.
| Symbolic thinking is difficult to learn. |
The more schooled we are in our rational way of thinking, the more difficult it is. Symbolic thinking as an instrument is necessary, however, if we want to deal with the unconscious. How do we face, e.g., "evil"? ...a bad situation in life that can seriously harm us? Fairytales show us different strategies in extreme situations, or ways of passing difficult tests. There is no right or wrong. It is more about finding out what seems most useful in each situation.
For examples of fairytales and their analysis, see the book The Interpretation of Fairytales by Marie-Louise von Franz. An often cited example in which Jung himself analyzes a fairytale in detail can be found in volume 13 of his collected works. The fairytale is called The Spirit in the Bottle. It symbolizes important elements of the human psyche and represents Jung's phases of consciousness development.
At this point you have reached the end of our website. In all sections we have tried to keep basic knowledge and free space in balance. But: not a single word can replace the value of experience.
We look forward to seeing you!
