Bluebeard explains to his new wife that she may explore all the rooms of his mansion except for one. She promises to obey his command, but once her sisters arouse her curiosity, and against Bluebeard's instruction, she opens a door to find a bloodied room. Here hung the dismembered remains of his former wives.

This grim story holds an important message. The tale of Bluebeard speaks of the problems of a false equanimity, such as one might find in a relationship, in an employment situation or in our approach to life. Where we allow ourselves to be charmed or where we endeavour to placate others, we may also imperil ourselves. When we feel like we are 'walking on eggshells' we are in Bluebeard territory.

In this session, we will explore the psychology of naivety, good behaviour, and subservience, as well as the tendency toward the control others. Despite our modern times, Bluebeard’s grip on our psyche is surprisingly pervasive. What is to be found in the hidden room may be horrific, but it is also revivifying.

Fairytale Series
Marie Lou von Franz, Jung's student and collaborator, describes fairytales as the the deepest source of psychological insights, free from most cultural overlays. In this series we explore the wisdom of the fairytales through a reading of the tale, a psychological analysis and through relating the tale to our personal lives.