The Complete Fairy Books (Vol.1-12) (eBook)

Andrew Lang (1844–1912) was a Scottish poet, novelist, literary critic, and contributor to the field of anthropology. He is best known for his work as a collector of folk and fairy tales. The son of a Scottish barrister, Lang was born in Selkirk. He studied at the University of St. Andrews and at Balliol College, Oxford, where he graduated with a first-class degree in Classics and subsequently became a fellow at Merton College. His early career saw him as a journalist and a publishing editor before he delved deeper into writing on a broad spectrum of subjects ranging from anthropology to history, from poetry to mythology. Lang's academia extended to include the prestigious position of President of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland between 1906 and 1911. However, he is most eminent for his publication of 'The Fairy Books' also known as 'Coloured Fairy Books' series – a collection of fairy tales from around the world which he compiled, edited, and sometimes adapted, spanning across 12 volumes including 'The Blue Fairy Book' (1889), 'The Red Fairy Book' (1890), and 'The Lilac Fairy Book' (1910), amongst others. This monumental work has since been collectively referred to as 'The Complete Fairy Books' and has been essential in preserving much of the world's fairy tales. His literary style is characterized by his clear narrative voice, a didactic undercurrent, and his aptitude to harmonize romanticism with realism. Lang's contribution to the preservation and dissemination of fairy tales has cemented his status as one of the seminal figures in the world of children's literature.