The mystical, magical allure of the fairy realm captivates people young and old. Perhaps it is the sprinkle of their magic dust that draws us in to their endearing worlds. Some of the earliest known origins of fairies dates back to Greek mythology. Then, faeries were called Nymphs. They served as mother earths protectors. Some are benevolent others, not so. My research indicated that there is no hard and fast rule as to what faeries’ dispositions are like….from tales of old, they seem to have very human like qualities, the only main difference is that they are depicted often living in woodsy magical homes or just hanging out in breath taking outdoor environments. Rarely have I come across faeries fighting against each other though, which to me is a great relief…because I want them to be and remain as fantastical as I have imagined them to be. Perhaps you too have created a particular image of how faeries are and wish to retain or better yet, preserve the etheric beauty and wonderment of their kind and world…I do too to be honest.
One thing is for sure, faeries have evolved throughout history with the earliest mention in mythology as referenced earlier, starting off as nymphs. Nymphs are a, “mythological spirit of nature imagined as a beautiful maiden inhabiting rivers, woods or other locations”, there is also the scientific definition,”an immature form of an insect that does not change greatly as it grows.” Surely, we will stay with the first definition. The word, “Fairy” in Latin means ‘Goddess of Fate’, Fata. Modern English faerie means, ‘realm of the fays’.
The symbolism associated with fairies is that of being rooted to nature. There is a deep natural connection between nature and faeries. Their role is as intermediaries between the natural world and the world of beings like you and I. They have the ability to communicate with plants, insects, animals, all the earth elements. Some are imbued with supernatural powers or strengths, such as invisibility.
The fairy form varies as some have wings while others have other forms depending on their residence, such as those who reside in water may have fin like appendages.
They come and go as they please, some live amongst flowers, trees, branches, grasses, and any natural earth creation. Some wreak havoc with no mal intent, while others love to cause small hiccups in ones day…like hiding car keys…why those little stinkers!
According to Medium.com, in 13th Century, England, fairies began to be referred to as ‘little people’ and were depicted either with wings or non what so ever. The dichotomy furthers out to their personality traits with some being nice or….evil! Sadly, beliefs influenced and shaped by the early church associated them as ‘fallen angels’ where they were perceived as not quite up to snuff for heaven…and to Earth they went.
I found it interesting that the term faerie, encompasses types that I thought were solely their own, like for example as I read in the Medium article, ‘faerie’ included: leprechauns, goblins, elves, enchanters, fay, genies, gnomes, goblins, gremlins, hobs, mermaids, nymphs, pixies…” Eventually they began to capture the attention of a wider audience and in the early 1900’s, marketing began to depict them in everything from cartoons and movies.
For me, fairies are as diverse as humans in their form, character and ability. The only difference may be that they exist in realms that are unseen via the human eye….however, I believe that there is a way to see them if we work on meditation to open up and expand our vision capabilities. That is my next quest!
For now, I am happy in my belief that they are here with us, watching us, playing with us, humoring us, and I hope they continue to do so…because I am surely captivated by them.
Merry Meet,
Savannagh H.