Contes, Tome I

by Madame d' (Marie-Catherine) Aulnoy

"Contes, Tome I" by Madame d'Aulnoy is a collection of fairy tales written in the late 17th century. The volume includes enchanting stories filled with elements of fantasy, such as beautiful princesses, brave heroes, and talking animals. The narratives often revolve around themes of love, the triumph of good over evil, and the importance of kindness and loyalty. The opening of "La Belle aux cheveux d'or," the first tale in the collection, introduces us to a stunningly beautiful princess whose golden hair captivates all who see her. A neighboring young king falls deeply in love with her at first hearsay and decides to propose marriage through an envoy. However, the princess refuses, which sets off a chain of events that leads to the hero, Avenant, coming into the picture. He is resilient and determined to win her heart, embarking on a journey filled with encounters with magical creatures who assist him, setting the stage for both adventure and romance in his quest to fulfill the young king’s desire for the princess.