Fairies

What roles do fairies play in traditional folklore?
How do fairies interact with humans in different mythologies?

Fairies in traditional folklore serve a variety of roles, depending on the cultural context. Often seen as guardians of nature, fairies are believed to protect forests, rivers, and mountains, ensuring that humans respect the natural world. In Celtic mythology, for example, fairies are tied to the earth and live in hidden realms, often underground or in ancient mounds. These fairies may be protectors of the land, punishing those who damage the environment but rewarding those who show kindness and reverence. In other traditions, such as Norse and Germanic myths, fairies or elven beings are often depicted as guardians of natural resources, sometimes even influencing crops or weather patterns.

Fairies' interactions with humans vary across mythologies, ranging from friendly to hostile.

In Irish folklore, the "good folk" (another term for fairies) can be helpful if treated with respect, but they are also known to cause trouble. They may kidnap people and send them to supernatural realms, steal children, or play tricks on those who trespass on their domain. Similarly, in Scottish folklore, fairies are sometimes depicted as benevolent beings who offer aid to humans, but they may also seek revenge if wronged, causing illness or misfortune.

In Slavic folklore, interactions between humans and fairies such as the Vila are often based on respect and careful boundaries. These fairies can be either helpful or dangerous; if someone respects their home, they may receive blessings, but if they disrupt nature, they may face dire consequences.

Fairies in modern adaptations, such as in literature and film, are often portrayed as more playful and benevolent, helping humans in times of need, but this is a much gentler version of the more complex and often unpredictable nature of the fairies of traditional folklore.