EMBODIMENT OF THE INTERSEX PSYCHE THROUGH FAIRY TALES

How do the symbols of transformation and bodily change in fairy tales reflect the lived experiences of intersex people in today’s world?

Last Friday (November 8th), on Intersex Remembrance Day, I attended Mythologium 2024, the virtual conference "Myth & Creativity" hosted by the International Society of Mythology. There, I presented my work "Embodiment of the Intersex Psyche Through Fairy Tales."

For instance, I discussed:
The concept of embodiment—where cognition is deeply intertwined with bodily experience (embodied cognition)—shapes intersex individuals’ understanding of themselves. It can result in fluid, non-linear self-experiences that defy binary gender frameworks.

Different Archetypes in the Intersex Psyche, such as
- Wounded Healer could help us to study how intersex individuals integrate pain and healing, often from medical interventions, into personal and collective identities.

- Shapeshifter could resonate with the adaptability and fluid nature of intersex experience, reflecting how intersex people adapt to society.

I also mentioned how it is important to distinguish the archetype/symbol of Hermaphrodite, which is often seen as a symbol of blending "masculine and feminine" traits, from the unique psychological experiences of intersex people.

Exploring folk tales (like "The Maiden Without Hands") could reveal how fairy tales could reflect the intersex personal and collective psyche. They provide intersex people with symbolic resources for understanding and integrating their unique experiences and offer a pathway to self-discovery and empowerment.