Classical Children's Lit Final Flashcards

The Grimm Brothers

• Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, born into a wealthy family, faced hardship after their father’s death, forcing them to support their family.
• Wilhelm focused on literature, while Jacob pursued scholarly work, notably developing Grimm's Law for language connections.
• They collected, edited, and published German fairytales over seven editions, aiming to foster a sense of Germanness rather than inventing stories.

Origin of Grimm's Fairytales

• Many tales are derived from oral traditions, often told by literate individuals from the minor aristocracy or middle class.
• The significant contributions from women authors may be reflective of the strong, spirited heroines in the stories.

Black Laughter

• A term describing a form of dark humor or glee, often observed when characters face just retribution.

King Thrushbeard

• A tale where King Thrushbeard disguises himself as a bard to marry a vain princess who is forced by her father to marry him instead.
• The story highlights the theme that true worth lies within, rather than in external appearances.

The Goose Girl

• A princess is gifted a cloth with three drops of blood for protection but faces deceit when her servant takes her place.
• The plot involves investigations by the king who uncovers the impostor, ultimately leading to the false princess's punishment.

Rapunzel

• The story features a young couple who relinquish their daughter after stealing from a witch; Rapunzel is imprisoned in a tower.
• The narrative includes themes of love and betrayal, culminating in the prince's blindness and eventual healing through Rapunzel's tears.

Charles Perrault

• A French author regarded as the first known publisher of fairy tales; he began writing at age 67.
• Key works include "Little Red Riding Hood," "Cinderella," "Bluebeard," and "Sleeping Beauty," among others.
• Pioneered fairy tales derived from traditional folk tales, shaping the genre.

Little Red Riding Hood

• A cautionary tale warning young girls of predatory men, symbolized by the wolf.
• Red Riding Hood’s encounter with the wolf serves as a lesson on vigilance and trust.

Hans Christian Andersen

• A Danish author (1805-1875) from a humble background; his writings reflect his life experiences.
• Notable for over 150 stories, including "The Ugly Duckling," he faced personal challenges and fears throughout his life.

The Princess and the Pea

• A story illustrating the distinction between genuine and false nobility through a test involving a pea under numerous mattresses.

The Snow Queen

• Centers on characters Gerda and Kai, showcasing themes of faith and the struggle against icy rationality.
• Unique interpretations exist between handout and book versions, emphasizing choices in faith and moral challenges.

The Nightingale

• Contrasts authenticity with imitation through a real bird’s enchanting song versus a mechanical bird.
• The emperor’s decadence and the songmaster's deception highlight the value of genuine artistry.

The Little Mermaid

• A narrative of sacrifice where the mermaid trades her tail and voice for a chance at love and eternal life.
• Explores themes of transformation and redemption, culminating in her eventual ascendance due to her virtuous actions.

Beauty and the Beast

• Addressed by Madame de Villeneuve; themes of love transcending superficial differences and the importance of inner beauty can be derived from the tale.