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Andrew Lang (1844-1912) was a Scottish poet, novelist, literary critic, and contributor to the field of anthropology. He is best known for his work as a collector of fairy tales and folklores. Lang's academic breadth was considerable, having studied at the University of St. Andrews and Balliol College, Oxford, where he developed a diverse interest in classics, anthropology, history, and folklore. The Fairy Books, also known as the 'Coloured' Fairy Books, represent an ambitious and enduring project in which Lang compiled traditional stories from around the world, delighting readers with tales of enchantment and myth. These books, beautifully illustrated, were divided by the color of their covers, each volume presenting a treasure trove of stories from differing cultural backgrounds. Lang's editorial contribution was to polish the stories in a manner suitable for young readers of his time, all the while respecting the original spirit of each tale. His literary style often fused a keen scholarly attention to detail with a palpable enthusiasm for the fantastical elements inherent in folklore. The series became a landmark in children's literature, capturing the imaginations of countless readers and exerting a profound influence on the genre. Lang's legacy is secured not only by The Fairy Books but also by his prolific output in various domains, including poetry, criticism, and translations of Homeric epics. His work remains a staple in the canon of children's literature and serves as a significant scholarly resource in the study of folk narratives.
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