The Frog King, or Iron Heinrich
Who wrote it?
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm
Where can it be found?
in The Annotated Brothers Grimm
Edited by Maria Tatar
Edited by Maria Tatar
Adaptation?
Original Grimm Brothers form.
My thoughts in exactly 10 words:
Romantic American versions have shielded me form this violent princess.
Extended thoughts:
Yes, before reading this version, I had never heard that in most original versions it is some form of violence that changes the frog (or snake etc.) back into a prince. It really places a whole other dimension to the story which would really be a variant on Beauty and the Beast if it were a kiss that released the prince. I guess this just goes to show how strongly Anglo-American culture and folklore is disseminated around the world. Other people who read a lot of fairy tales are probably shaking their head at me, but I cannot apologise for my upbringing and I am trying to educate myself now. Also, the character of Heinrich, who is introduced in the last paragraph of the story, fascinates me. I have never heard of him either!
Favourite Quote:
“Faithful Heinrich had been so saddened by the transformation of his master into a frog that three hoops had been placed around his chest to keep his heart from bursting with sorrow.”
Is it annotated?
Yes
Most interesting thing I learned from the annotations:
I think the many varied ways that different versions of this tale have some sort of harm committed towards the prince in animal form was very intriguing. To read them all, you’ll just have to find a copy of this book.
Moral of the story in my own words:
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