Orthodoxy, Protestantism, and Fairytales | Jonathan Pageau EP 212

Jonathan Pageau is back on my podcast! He spoke about mythology and the decline of meaningful fairy tales, and shared his reimagining of ‘Jack and the Beanstock’ – ’Jack and the Fallen Giants.’

Jonathan explored the role of Saints, scripture, and the difference between Protestant and Orthodox beliefs regarding them.  

Jonathan delved into the mythological significance of classic stories and why they resonate in ways today’s tales often fail to.. Reflecting on the storytelling legacy of old Disney films, he contrasted them with modern animations that feel increasingly shallow, and how the earlier films conveyed themes of good vs. evil, courage, and moral growth, in addition to grappling with complex and powerful religious symbolism. 

Jonathan Pageau is a Canadian icon carver, artist, and speaker known for his unique insights into symbolism, art, and traditional Christian imagery. Pageau explores everything from biblical stories to pop culture, bringing fresh discussions about meaning, symbolism, and the spiritual life to a modern audience.

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—Chapters—

0:00 - Old Disney magic vs. new meh

5:07 - Pageau’s back with a new book!

6:30 - Jack and the Beanstalk retold

10:32 - Deeper symbolism of Jack and the Beanstalk

12:15 - The moral implications of Jack stealing from the giants

13:30 - Giants as real-life villains

17:00 - Life lessons hidden in fairy tales

18:41 - Good vs. evil: Why it matters

23:15 - Hardship isn’t an excuse for evil

25:20 - The importance of preserving traditional storytelling

27:30 - Reviving fairy tales

34:15 - Books as symbols of home and memory

35:03 - The deeper meaning of ‘Home’

42:38 - Why are Saints important?

49:33 - Mediators of the love of God

1:01:33 - Hell is the sins you haven’t rectified

1:04:40 - God's love reflected in community and creation