Fairies are a well-known archetype of folkloric character that appear in many fairy tales, the most famous being Thumbelina, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. These magical stories are named after these legendary beings. Their presence in these tales increased due to the popularity of the literary fables of Madame d'Aulnoy and Charles Perrault.
Appearance
In ancient legends, fairies take on many forms but during the Victorian era, they were depicted as beautiful creatures resembling women with the opalescent wings of real and imagined insects, the most popular being butterflies. In fables, fairies are enchanting, winged beings with vast magical powers that rival or even surpass the skills of witches. Fairies are associated with nature and often dwell in woodland areas.
They could change their shape and would test mortals. Those who show them kindness are awarded with wonderful but sometimes strange things like beauty or precious objects falling from the person's mouth. Those who were wicked or rude were punished with vile things like ugliness and toads appearing every time they speak. While most fairies are good and helpful, there are some who are nasty or downright wicked like the Wicked Fairy Godmother from Sleeping Beauty.
History
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Sleeping Beauty
Depending on the version, not one but eight fairies appear in this tale. At the christening of a king and queen's long-wished-for-child, seven good fairies are invited to be godmothers and to bless the baby princess. Each fairy is presented with a golden plate and drinking cups adorned with jewels. The first six fairies bless the princess with special gifts of beauty, grace and intelligence. Before the seventh fairy can present her gift, the old eight fairy enters the palace, outraged at being overlooked.