Fairy Tale Historian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of literature, the focus on fairy tale historians has never been more captivating.

As society evolves, so does our thirst for the skilled storytellers who can explore, interpret, and preserve the magical folklore of yesteryears.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a fairy tale historian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate study of fairy tales,

You’ve found the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable fairy tale historian job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Fairy Tale Historian Duties and Responsibilities

Fairy Tale Historians delve into the world of myth, legend and folklore, using research and analysis to trace the origins and evolution of popular fairy tales, thereby preserving the cultural heritage encapsulated within them.

They are chiefly involved in academic and educational pursuits, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Conducting in-depth research on various fairy tales from different cultures
• Comparing and contrasting various versions of a single tale to note cultural differences and similarities
• Tracing the historical evolution of fairy tales, noting changes in plot, characters, and themes over time
• Analyzing various fairy tales to draw out underlying social, cultural, or moral lessons
• Preserving fairy tales by documenting them in books, articles, or digital media
• Lecturing or teaching about the historical and cultural significance of fairy tales in educational institutions
• Presenting findings at academic conferences, seminars, or through published papers
• Collaborating with authors, filmmakers, and other professionals to provide historical and cultural insights for fairy tale adaptations

 

Fairy Tale Historian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable and passionate Fairy Tale Historian to join our team.

The Fairy Tale Historian will be responsible for researching, interpreting, and presenting historical information about various fairy tales, their origins, cultural significance, variations, and impacts on society.

The ideal candidate for this position should have a deep understanding of folklore, mythology, and literature, as well as excellent research and presentation skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Researching and studying historical documents and sources to understand the origins and development of various fairy tales.
• Analyzing and interpreting fairy tales in their historical and cultural contexts.
• Presenting findings in a clear and engaging manner through written reports, lectures, or exhibitions.
• Working closely with archivists, librarians, and other professionals to access relevant materials.
• Developing and maintaining a comprehensive database of fairy tale histories and interpretations.
• Assisting in the creation of educational materials and programs about fairy tales.
• Keeping up-to-date with new research and developments in folklore studies and related fields.

 

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in History, Literature, Folklore Studies, or a related field.
• Proven experience as a historian, researcher, or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of fairy tales, folklore, and mythology.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.
• Strong writing and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in using databases and other research tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Fairy Tale Historian
• Work Environment: This position is primarily office-based, with potential for travel to libraries, archives, and conferences. Remote work options may be available.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Research or Senior Historian.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Fairy Tale Historian Do?

A Fairy Tale Historian works in the field of literature, focusing on the study, research, and interpretation of fairy tales throughout history.

Their job involves tracing the origins and evolution of various fairy tales over different cultures and periods.

They examine the socio-cultural implications of these stories, as well as the values, lessons, and ideals they represent.

Fairy Tale Historians often analyze different versions of a particular fairy tale, identifying elements that have been modified, added, or removed over time.

They seek to understand why these changes occurred and what they signify about the societies in which they happened.

They may also research and write about the authors of these tales, the historical context in which they were written, and the impact they have had on literature and culture.

Fairy Tale Historians often collaborate with librarians, educators, and other scholars.

They might present their findings at conferences, publish them in academic journals, or use them to develop curricula for students studying literature, history, or cultural studies.

In some cases, a Fairy Tale Historian may also work as a consultant for entertainment or media companies, providing insights on fairy tales for film, television, or theater productions.

 

Fairy Tale Historian Qualifications and Skills

A Fairy Tale Historian should have a comprehensive skill set and qualifications that allow them to analyze, interpret and study the historic context of fairy tales, including:

• Extensive knowledge of folklore and fairy tale history across various cultures and regions.
• Ability to conduct comprehensive research using a multitude of resources, both physical and digital.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills to interpret and understand the historic context, symbolism, and themes within fairy tales.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively present findings and interpretations to a variety of audiences.
• Proficiency in at least one foreign language could be beneficial for studying non-English fairy tales in their original context.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage and maintain research materials and records.
• A degree in History, Literature, Folklore Studies, or a related field can provide a strong foundation for understanding the scope and depth of fairy tales.
• Aptitude for cultural sensitivity and understanding, as fairy tales often reflect the societal norms, beliefs, and values of the time and place they originated from.
• Proficiency with modern technology and digitization tools to maintain, restore, and digitally archive fairy tales and related research materials.

 

Fairy Tale Historian Experience Requirements

A Fairy Tale Historian would need an academic background in a relevant field, such as Literature, Folklore Studies, or Cultural Anthropology.

Experience required for this role generally includes a minimum of 2-3 years in literary analysis or historical research, ideally with a focus on fairy tales or folklore.

This experience can be gained through academic research during undergraduate or graduate studies, internships at cultural institutions, libraries, or publishing houses.

To move beyond an entry-level position, candidates would need to demonstrate a deeper understanding and knowledge of fairy tales and their cultural, historical, and social significance.

This might be achieved through further studies, like a Masters or PhD, or through extensive research and publication in the field.

For a more senior role, such as a professorship or a leadership role in a cultural institution, 5-10 years of experience in the field would be expected.

This should include a substantial publication record, teaching experience, or demonstrated expertise in curating or preserving fairy tales and folklore.

Language skills can be an important asset for a Fairy Tale Historian, as many fairy tales originate in non-English speaking countries.

Therefore, proficiency in one or more foreign languages would be advantageous.

Finally, practical experience in public speaking, teaching, or presenting at conferences can also be beneficial for this role, as sharing knowledge and sparking interest in the field are key parts of a Fairy Tale Historian’s job.

 

Fairy Tale Historian Education and Training Requirements

Fairy Tale Historians typically require a bachelor’s degree in history, literature, folklore studies or a related field.

They should possess an in-depth understanding of various cultures and their mythologies, folklore, and traditions.

Knowledge of multiple languages can also be beneficial, as it allows for the study of fairy tales in their original context and language.

Many positions may require a master’s degree or Ph.D. in a specialized area such as comparative literature, cultural anthropology, or folklore studies.

This higher level of education allows for a deeper understanding and analysis of the historical and cultural contexts of fairy tales.

It’s also essential for a Fairy Tale Historian to have excellent research and analytical skills.

They often need to delve into ancient texts and decipher complex narratives to understand the origins and transformations of various fairy tales.

Certifications are not usually required in this field, but courses or certifications related to literary analysis, cultural studies, or folklore can enhance a Fairy Tale Historian’s qualifications.

Continual learning is crucial in this field, as new tales, interpretations, and cultural contexts are continuously being discovered and studied.

Thus, dedication to ongoing learning is highly valued.

 

Fairy Tale Historian Salary Expectations

A Fairy Tale Historian can expect to earn an average salary of $58,230 (USD) per year.

This figure can fluctuate based on factors such as the level of education, years of experience in the field, location, and the type of organization for which they work.

 

Fairy Tale Historian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Fairy Tale Historian need?

Fairy Tale Historians should possess strong research and analytical skills to dig into the origins and changes of fairy tales throughout history.

They should have excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate their findings effectively.

Additionally, they should have a deep understanding of folklore, anthropology, history and literature.

 

Do Fairy Tale Historians need a degree?

While it is not mandatory, having a degree in History, Literature, Folklore Studies or Anthropology can be beneficial for a Fairy Tale Historian.

Some positions might require a Master’s degree or a Ph.D. in these fields.

The key is to have a solid foundation in research methodologies and a strong understanding of historical and cultural contexts.

 

What should you look for in a Fairy Tale Historian resume?

Firstly, look for education credentials in related fields like History, Literature, Folklore Studies or Anthropology.

It’s also important to look for experience in research and publications.

If they have presented papers, written articles, or published books on fairy tales or related subjects, it indicates they have a deep understanding of the field.

Knowledge of multiple languages can also be a bonus as it can help them to study fairy tales from different cultures.

 

What qualities make a good Fairy Tale Historian?

A good Fairy Tale Historian has a passion for fairy tales and a curiosity to uncover their historical and cultural significance.

They should have excellent analytical skills to decipher meanings and patterns in fairy tales.

In addition, they should be able to work independently, manage their time efficiently, and have excellent writing skills to clearly communicate their findings.

 

What are the daily duties of a Fairy Tale Historian?

A Fairy Tale Historian typically spends their day conducting research, either by reading books, articles or exploring digital databases.

They may also spend time writing and editing their findings for publication.

Apart from this, they may give lectures, attend seminars or engage in discussions with other historians.

Some might even work in museums or libraries, curating exhibits related to fairy tales.

 

Conclusion

And so, we have arrived at the end of our journey.

Today, we have ventured deep into the magical realm of what it truly means to be a Fairy Tale Historian.

But guess what?

It’s not just about recounting old tales.

It’s about weaving the threads of historical fiction and fact, one enchanting tale at a time.

With our reliable Fairy Tale Historian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your next adventure.

But why end your quest here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your magical key to creating spellbinding job listings or polishing your resume to mythical perfection.

Remember:

Every fairy tale is a part of our shared history.

Let’s unravel that history. Together.

How to Become a Fairy Tale Historian (Complete Guide)

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