The Three Classes of Fairies

In the medieval era, there were various theories about fairies, including them being fallen angels, dead souls in purgatory, and supernatural beings caught between heaven and hell. The safest view was that fairies were a category of angels who fell. Within these beliefs, three classes of fairies were identified: low-tier fairies known for their malicious nature, a middle class with apathy leaning towards malice, and the high fairy class representing powerful and benevolent beings. Folklore warns against attracting the attention of fairies, especially the more malevolent types.