Shadow and Evil in Fairy Tales

1. The Shadow: Unacknowledged Aspects of the Psyche

In Jungian psychology, we generally define the shadow as the personification of certain aspects of the unconscious personality, which could be added to the ego complex but which, for various reasons, are not.

Definition of the Shadow. The shadow is not simply the "dark side" but encompasses all unconscious aspects of the personality that the ego has not integrated. This includes repressed qualities, unrealized potentials, and even collective elements inherited from civilization. Recognizing the shadow is the first step toward psychological wholeness.

Personal and Collective Shadows. The shadow has both personal and collective dimensions. The personal shadow consists of repressed qualities unique to an individual's history, while the collective shadow reflects the unacknowledged aspects of a group or civilization. Civilizations, like individuals, have shadows, often visible to outsiders but unseen by those within.

Integrating the Shadow. Acknowledging the shadow is only part of the process; integrating it into conscious life is the true challenge. This requires courage, reflection, and a willingness to adapt, as it often involves expressing qualities that have been repressed for years. The integration of the shadow can be a disturbing process, but it is essential for psychological growth.

2. Evil as a Primitive Force: Nature's Indifference

If one has to fight against demonic evil in a human being, what strikes one most is that if people are outstandingly destructive...one’s immediate reaction is that it is inhuman...

Evil as a Natural Phenomenon. On a primitive level, evil is not an ethical problem but a force of nature, like an avalanche or a storm. It is a destructive phenomenon that must be either overcome or escaped. This perspective lacks moral judgment; it is simply a matter of survival.

The Numinous and the Terrible. This primitive evil is both terrifying and fascinating, possessing a numinous quality that draws us in even as it repels us. This duality is reflected in ghost stories and tales of monsters, which evoke a sense of gruesome wonder. The execution of criminals in primitive societies was not necessarily about moral judgment but about restoring balance after someone had acted in a way that transcended human limits.

Inhumanity and Divinity. Destructive acts, especially in psychosis, can seem inhuman, even divine. The primitive mind recognizes that someone who commits a heinous crime is not acting as a normal human being but as an instrument of a dark god. This perspective acknowledges the power and terror of evil without necessarily assigning moral blame.

3. Possession: The Loss of Individuality to Archetypes

If one has to fight against demonic evil in a human being...one’s immediate reaction is that it is inhuman, especially in psychosis or psychotic states where one sometimes meets destructiveness so cold and inhuman and demonic, and concomitantly so “divine,” that one is overwhelmed.

The Nature of Possession. Possession occurs when an individual is overtaken by an archetypal force, losing their individuality and becoming a vessel for something greater than themselves. This can manifest as a slow dehumanization, where the person gradually loses their connection to human values and becomes an instrument of destruction.

Supernatural Gifts and the Loss of Humanity. Possession often brings with it supernatural gifts or abilities, such as clairvoyance or heightened strength. However, these gifts come at the cost of humanity, as the individual becomes increasingly alienated from their own feelings and values. The possessed individual is often at peace with their state, even as they inflict harm on others.

The Need for Exorcism. The only way to break the cycle of possession is through a kind of exorcism, a process of rehumanization that forces the individual to confront the consequences of their actions and reclaim their lost individuality. This is a difficult and often painful process, as it involves giving up the power and certainty that come with being possessed.

4. Taboos: Boundaries Against the Unconscious

The habit of killing bad criminals by hanging them on trees is a very archaic one.

Taboos as Protective Measures. Taboos serve as boundaries against the overwhelming forces of the unconscious. They are rules and restrictions that help to maintain order and prevent individuals from being swept away by destructive impulses. Infringing taboos can lead to possession or other forms of psychological imbalance.

The Importance of Respect. Respect for the numinous and the unknown is essential for maintaining psychological health. This involves acknowledging the power of the unconscious and avoiding the kind of infantile daring that leads to transgression. A lack of respect for the boundaries between the conscious and unconscious can open the door to destructive forces.

The Collective and the Individual. Taboos are often collective in nature, reflecting the shared values and beliefs of a community. However, individuals must also develop their own personal taboos, based on their unique experiences and sensitivities. These personal boundaries are essential for maintaining a sense of self and preventing psychological fragmentation.

5. Hot vs. Cold Evil: Emotionality and its Absence

Every archetypal figure has its own shadow.

Hot Evil: The Fire of Emotion. Hot evil is characterized by uncontrolled emotionality, such as rage, greed, or envy. This type of evil is infectious and can quickly spread through a group or society. It is often associated with a loss of perspective and a tendency to exaggerate or distort reality.

Cold Evil: The Absence of Feeling. Cold evil, on the other hand, is characterized by a lack of emotion, a kind of heartlessness or indifference to the suffering of others. This type of evil is often associated with a calculating and manipulative mindset. It is a state of sterile suspension where the process of life has stopped.

The Need for Balance. Both hot and cold evil are destructive, but they require different approaches. Hot evil must be cooled down and brought under control, while cold evil must be warmed up and infused with feeling. The key is to find a balance between reason and emotion, between action and reflection.

6. The Magical Contest: Wits Against the Devil

Every powerful symbol of the Self unites the opposites, but if it loses its strength, it can no longer function in this way, and the opposites begin to fall apart.

The Nature of the Magical Contest. The magical contest is a recurring motif in fairy tales, representing the struggle between good and evil on a spiritual level. It is a battle of wits and knowledge, rather than brute force. The key to winning is to understand the rules of the game and to use one's intelligence and cunning to outsmart the opponent.

The Importance of Knowledge. Knowledge, especially knowledge of the unconscious, is a powerful weapon against evil. However, this knowledge must be combined with a genuine connection to the Self, a sense of inner integrity. Otherwise, it can be used for destructive purposes.

The Role of the Feminine. In many magical contests, the feminine principle plays a crucial role. The anima, with her intuition and connection to the unconscious, can provide valuable insights and guidance. However, the anima must be integrated and balanced, not allowed to dominate or control the ego.

7. The Anima's Role: Inspiration and Destruction

The fact that we have a type of fairy tale similar to that of “Amor and Psyche” shows that the basic structure might be two thousand years old or more, so the date can perhaps be proved from inner if not from outer evidence, by the archetypal situation.

The Anima as a Bridge. The anima, the feminine side of a man's psyche, serves as a bridge to the deeper layers of the unconscious. She can bring up new ideas and insights, inspiring creativity and growth. However, the anima can also be a source of destruction, leading a man astray with her seductive illusions.

The Poison in the Anima. The anima is often contaminated with unconscious impulses and desires, which can manifest as negative moods, destructive judgments, and a tendency to lie or exaggerate. Exorcising the anima involves confronting these negative qualities and integrating them into conscious awareness.

The Need for Discernment. It is essential to discern between the positive and negative aspects of the anima. This requires a critical mind and a willingness to challenge the anima's pronouncements, even when they seem compelling or inspiring. The goal is to harness the anima's creative power without being consumed by her destructive tendencies.

8. The Significance of the Self: Finding Inner Wholeness

The king represents on a primitive level a personification, or is a carrier of the mystical life power of the nation or tribe...

The Self as the Center. The Self is the regulating center of the psyche, the source of wholeness and meaning. It is often symbolized by figures such as the king, the wise old man, or the divine child. Connecting with the Self involves integrating the conscious and unconscious aspects of the personality and finding a sense of purpose and direction in life.

The Aging King and the Need for Renewal. The image of the aging king who must be replaced by a new king reflects the need for constant renewal and adaptation. As we grow and change, we must be willing to let go of old attitudes and beliefs and embrace new perspectives. This process of renewal is essential for maintaining psychological vitality.

The Simple Man as the New King. The motif of the simple man becoming king symbolizes the renewal of collective consciousness from unexpected sources. It suggests that the answers to our most pressing problems may lie in the wisdom of the common people, in the voices that are often overlooked or ignored.

9. The Importance of Relationship: Connection as a Shield

If one lived quite alone, it would be practically impossible to see one’s shadow, because there would be no one to say how you looked from the outside.

The Need for an Onlooker. We cannot see our own shadow without the help of others. Relationships provide a mirror in which we can see ourselves more clearly, including the aspects of our personality that we tend to deny or repress. Honest feedback from trusted friends and partners can be invaluable for psychological growth.

The Dangers of Isolation. Loneliness and isolation can create a breeding ground for evil. When we are cut off from human connection, we are more vulnerable to possession by destructive forces. Relationships provide a buffer against the overwhelming power of the unconscious.

The Collective Shadow. Groups and societies also have shadows, which are often expressed through prejudice, discrimination, and violence. By acknowledging and confronting our collective shadow, we can create a more just and compassionate world.

Last updated: March 14, 2025