Disruption, creative edges, and the fairy tale "Tatterhood"

Disruption, creative edges, and the fairy tale "Tatterhood"

From Myth Matters by Catherine Svehla

March 6, 2026 · 47 min · Season 8 · Episode 8

About this episode

The episode explores the Norwegian fairy tale 'Tatterhood' and its themes of disruption and the limitations of social structures.

Send Catherine a text Message The Norwegian fairy tale of "Tatterhood" begins as many stories do, with a kingdom that lacks something essential. Each of us lives in a fairy tale kingdom or two, in an orderly system of protocols and social rules that structure both outer and inner worlds. The stability of the kingdom is important. And yet, the structure eventually outlives its usefulness. The old order stagnates, degrades, and loses meaning. The boundaries are too tight and the space fee...

People in this episode

Host: Catherine Svehla

Topics covered

  • fairy tales
  • disruption
  • social structures
  • creativity
  • kingdoms

Keywords

  • Tatterhood
  • fairy tale
  • disruption
  • social rules
  • creativity
  • kingdom

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Tatterhood

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