Source Material and Background Notes Charles de Lint

Folk Tales and Fairy Tales This unit will combine the elements of both. Urban fantasy fiction- stories set in modern urban landscapes with influences from myths and fairy tales. There is a combination of elements of Grimm and Disney in the collection we will read.

The Tuatha Dé Danann “People of the goddess,” invaded Ireland and established rule, had immortal blood. This is the mythology that influences Irish culture. They brought four magical treasures with them: Dagda’s Cauldron(a cooking pot that never empties) Spear of Lugh (constantly dripped blood, guaranteed victory, burned hot and had to be kept in water) Stone of Fal (stone of destiny, where kings were crowned) Sword of Light of Nuada (glowed red and could cut enemies in half)

Nuada was the first king of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Lugh is often associated with light, the sun, and summer. A young warrior who took over after Nuada. Dagda is a father-figure and protector of the tribe. When the rightful High King of Ireland put his feet on Fal, the stone was said to roar in joy.

Prince Nuada Hellboy II

Salmon of Wisdom An ordinary salmon that ate the nine hazel nuts that fell into the Well of Wisdom. In doing so, the salmon gained all the knowledge in the world. The first person to eat of its flesh would, in turn, gain this knowledge. Also called Finn’s Salmon.

The Green Man Often related to natural agricultural deities springing up in different cultures throughout the ages. Primarily it is interpreted as a symbol of rebirth, or "renaissance," representing the cycle of growth each spring. Appears on countless gothic churches and castles. From Gloucester Cathedral

Vampires Vampires -mythological creatures who survive by feeding on the blood of the living. In folklore vampires often visited loved ones and caused mischief or deaths in the place where they lived when they were alive. Historically, they wore shrouds and were often described as bloated and of ruddy or dark countenance; different from today's gaunt, pale vampire which dates from the early 19th Century.

The Trickster The trickster is a figure who demonstrates the qualities of early human development (both cultural and psychological) that make civilization possible, and yet which cause problems. He is an expression of the least developed stage of life, dominated by physical appetites. Norse and Native American myths have this archetype play an important role. Who is the trickster in Thor and The Avengers?

Music Typically includes song lyrics and has characters who are musically oriented. Relies on classic Celtic ballads and American Bluegrass music.

Charles de Lint Credited as having pioneered the contemporary fantasy/urban fantasy genre. Written and published over 65 novels. Uses references to world mythology, fairy tales, and folklore in all of his work. Waifs and Strays, a young adult collection published by Viking, was named one of the Top 10 YA Fantasy Books of 2002 by Booklist and was also a finalist for the World Fantasy Award.

De Lint's greatest skill is his human focus—the mythic elements never overshadow his intimate study of character.  To read de Lint is to fall under the spell of a master storyteller, to be reminded of the greatness of life, of the beauty and majesty lurking in shadows and empty doorways. —Quill & Quire