The Uses of Enchantment (Bruno Bettelheim)

"The Uses of Enchantment" by Bruno Bettelheim explores how fairy tales help children understand and cope with real-life emotions, fears, and moral lessons. Bettelheim argues that these stories allow children to confront complex themes—like danger, death, and morality—in a symbolic way that fosters psychological growth and resilience. Through familiar fairy tale structures, children process their feelings, develop empathy, and learn important life values. The book highlights the importance of storytelling in childhood development and how traditional fairy tales serve as tools for emotional regulation and moral understanding.