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Folklore -- Germany Books
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The Nibelungenlied
"The Nibelungenlied" by an unknown author, translated by Daniel B. Shumway, is an epic poem written in Middle High German, probably around the early 13th century. The poem is a cornerstone of German literature and revolves around themes of heroism, love, betrayal, and tragedy, encapsulating the legendary exploits of Siegfried and his eventual downfall, along with the devastating consequences that ensue. The opening of "The Nibelungenlied" introduces the noble maid Kriemhild and her three brothers, Gunther, Gernot, and Giselher, who rule in Burgundy. Kriemhild is depicted as a beautiful and virtuous princess, and her dreams serve as a foreshadowing of future tragedy. The narrative hints at the impending conflicts that arise from love and loyalty, particularly as Siegfried emerges as a prominent figure seeking the hand of Kriemhild. As the story unfolds, we learn of Siegfried's extraordinary capabilities, including the legendary feats he accomplishes and the wealth he gains from his conquests. The beginning sets the stage for the epic's exploration of fate and the catastrophic events ignited by the intertwining lives of its characters.
C. S. (Charles Seddon) Evans
The Sleeping Beauty
"The Sleeping Beauty" by C. S. Evans is a classic fairy tale adapted from the traditional story, published in the early 20th century. This illustrated book brings to life the enchanting tale of a young princess named Briar-Rose, who is cursed by a spiteful fairy to fall into a deep sleep on her fifteenth birthday. The narrative centers around themes of love, fate, and the contrast between joy and sorrow, typical of fairy tales. The story begins with a king and queen who, after years of longing for a child, celebrate the birth of their beautiful daughter, Briar-Rose. During her christening, 12 fairy godmothers bestow gifts of beauty, wisdom, and grace upon her. However, the neglect of the thirteenth fairy leads to a grave curse: that Briar-Rose will prick her finger on a spindle and fall into a deep sleep. Despite the king's efforts to eliminate all spinning wheels, the prophecy unfolds as she encounters an old woman on her fifteenth birthday, leading to the enchanted sleep that lasts for a century. Ultimately, a brave prince finds the sleeping princess, awakens her with a kiss, and breaks the curse, leading to joy and celebration in the reawakened kingdom. The tale concludes with the promise of love and the intertwining of two destinies.
Rosalie Koch
Rübezahl Neue Sammlung der schönsten Sagen und Märchen von dem Berggeiste im Riesengebirge
"Rübezahl" by Rosalie Koch is a collection of fairy tales written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the folk character Rübezahl, a powerful mountain spirit known for his magical abilities and unpredictability. It presents various stories that explore themes of kindness, cunning, and the consequences of human actions when they intersect with the whims of this enigmatic spirit. The opening of the collection introduces the legendary Rübezahl as a mountain spirit residing in the Riesengebirge, reflecting on the changes in his territory as human settlements emerge. Initially displeased with mankind, he takes on human form to understand them better. This leads to comedic and moral encounters as he serves various masters, each embodying different human flaws. The text sets the stage for a series of stories that will highlight Rübezahl's trickery and benevolence towards the virtuous while punishing the wicked, providing a glimpse of the enchanting narratives that unfold in the following chapters.
Hamilton Wright Mabie
Legends That Every Child Should Know; a Selection of the Great Legends of All Times for Young People
"Legends That Every Child Should Know; a Selection of the Great Legends of All Times for Young People," edited by Hamilton Wright Mabie, is a collection of legendary tales intended for a young audience that draws from various cultural traditions. The book likely originated in the late 19th century, during a period when interest in folklore and mythology surged in Western literature. The legends included span a wide geographic area and time period, offering stories that engage the imagination and impart moral lessons, featuring iconic characters such as Hiawatha, Beowulf, and Childe Horn. The opening of the collection begins with an introduction that delves into the historical context and significance of legends. It explores the etymology of the word "legend," highlighting its roots in storytelling traditions that were often oral before being committed to writing. The introduction emphasizes the importance of legends as narratives that reflect cultures, typically inspired by historical events or figures, and how these stories serve as valuable tools for teaching moral values and preserving history. The initial chapters preview the collection with tales such as that of Hiawatha, the wise leader who instructs his people on the art of fishing and farming, and Beowulf, a mighty hero facing a monstrous foe. Each story promises to be richly embedded with lessons and thrilling adventures suitable for young readers.
Wilhelm Schäfer
Die dreizehn Bücher der deutschen Seele
"Die dreizehn Bücher der deutschen Seele" by Wilhelm Schäfer is a philosophical work written in the early 20th century. The text explores the depths of the German spirit through a rich tapestry of poetic imagery and historical reflection, emphasizing the intertwined narratives of myth, nature, and human experience. The book delves into profound themes of identity, memory, and the essence of the soul, offering insight into the collective consciousness of the German people. The opening of the work introduces readers to its thematic core, as it contemplates the concept of history and its relation to personal and collective existence. It begins with a poignant call to Germans seeking to understand their heritage, suggesting that historical narratives, while meaningful, often lack the soul needed to truly resonate. The text evokes a sense of depth, describing the life of the soul as a mysterious and profound reservoir, connecting past experiences with future destinies. Through vivid imagery and references to deities and mythical figures, the author sets the stage for an exploration of the spiritual forces that shape both individual lives and the national character. This philosophical journey appears to bridge the gap between past and present, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the unseen currents that influence one's identity and existence.
Anonymous
Folk-lore and Legends: German
"Folk-lore and Legends: Germany" by Anonymous is a collection of traditional tales and folk legends written in the late 19th century. This anthology presents various stories rooted in German folklore, highlighting themes of morality, the supernatural, and the cultural sentiments of the time. The narratives feature a range of characters from everyday people to mystical beings, embodying the whimsical, horrifying, and instructive nature of folk tales that reflect the values and aesthetics of German heritage. The opening of this collection introduces us to the purpose behind these tales, emphasizing the significance of folklore in understanding cultural heritage and the human experience. The first story, "Gaffer Death," sets the tone with a tale about a poor man who unwittingly makes Death his godfather, leading to a series of events that explore themes of fate and human struggle against mortality. This narrative establishes the whimsical yet serious nature of the tales to follow, where the interactions of humble individuals with the forces of nature and the supernatural reveal deeper moral lessons. The opening portion serves as both an introduction to these engaging stories and a philosophical commentary on the role of folklore in shaping societal values.
Lydia L. A. (Lydia Louisa Anna) Very
Red Riding Hood
"Red Riding Hood" by Lydia L. A. Very is a children's storybook written in the mid-19th century. This enchanting tale explores the themes of innocence, danger, and the importance of obedience through the familiar narrative of a young girl’s perilous journey through the woods. The book is not only a retelling of the classic folktale but is also illustrated, enhancing the storytelling experience for young readers. In this version of "Red Riding Hood," the story follows a sweet girl as she travels to deliver food to her ailing grandmother living in a secluded cabin. On her way, she encounters a cunning wolf who deceives her into revealing her destination. The wolf reaches the grandmother first, disguising himself to trick Red Riding Hood when she arrives. As the girl begins to notice the wolf's strange features and questions him, she is nearly consumed until a hunter intervenes, saving her and her grandmother. This story concludes with a moral lesson emphasizing the importance of listening to parental guidance, warning children about the dangers lurking in the world.
Rudolf Reichhardt
Rübezahl Deutsche Volksmärchen vom Berggeist und Herrn des Riesengebirges
"Rübezahl" by Rudolf Reichhardt is a collection of German folk tales featuring a mythical mountain spirit, written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Rübezahl, the ruler of the Giant Mountains, recounting his whimsical interactions with humans, showcasing his multifaceted nature as both benevolent and mischievous. The stories unfold his adventures, including encounters with villagers and the impact of his magical abilities on their lives. The beginning of the work introduces the enchanting backdrop of the Giant Mountains, where Rübezahl resides. In this opening portion, readers learn about the character of Rübezahl, who possesses the power to manipulate both nature and the fates of those who wander into his domain. We see his initial interest in humanity, leading him to take the guise of a farmhand to better understand the ways of people, although his experiences with human greed and ingratitude eventually disillusion him. The tale sets up Rübezahl as a complex figure—part trickster, part guardian—inviting readers into a world where the boundaries between the magical and the mundane blur.
Johann Karl August Musäus
Die Nymphe des Brunnens
"Die Nymphe des Brunnens" by Johann Karl August Musäus is a fairy tale published in 1783. When a water nymph foretells a knight's wife will die leaving behind a third daughter, she gifts the child Mathilde a magical musk apple. After enemies destroy her home, Mathilde becomes a servant and falls in love with Count Conrad. Using the apple's magic, she wins his heart, but his vengeful mother accuses her of witchcraft and condemns her to death. Only the nymph's intervention can save her.
Rudolf Herzog
Siegfried, der Held
"Siegfried, der Held" by Rudolf Herzog is a collection of stories for German youth written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the legendary figure Siegfried, exploring his early life, heroic deeds, and adventures against foes such as a dragon, as well as his encounters with other mythical characters. The text draws upon Germanic mythology, emphasizing themes of courage, strength, and the quest for glory. The opening of the tale introduces Siegfried as a young boy who grows up under the care of Mime, a blacksmith. As he trains and learns the ways of combat, Siegfried's natural bravery and skill become evident. He dreams of fighting dragons and proving his might, eventually leading to his quest to slay the dragon Fafner and obtain the Nibelung treasure. The early chapters construct a sense of Siegfried’s destiny as a great hero, emphasizing his youthful exuberance, strength, and the wonder of his adventures ahead, setting the stage for the grand exploits that follow.
Jacob Grimm
Contes choisis de la famille
"Contes choisis de la famille" by Jacob Grimm and Wilhelm Grimm is a collection of traditional folk tales and fables, likely written during the early 19th century. This compilation features stories that delve into themes of morality, cunning, and the human condition, often featuring animals as central characters. The collection reflects the storytelling traditions and cultural narratives of Europe, particularly in the context of German folklore. The book comprises several engaging tales, each highlighting various aspects of human nature and societal norms through allegorical storytelling. For instance, in "Le loup et l'homme," a boastful wolf learns a harsh lesson about the strength of humans when he underestimates them during a confrontation. In "Le violon merveilleux," a musician uses a magical violin to captivate various animals, leading to humorous and ironic outcomes. Stories like "La douce bouillie" and "Le docteur universel" cleverly weave magic and wit to impart lessons on greed, cunning, and the folly of confusion. Through these enchanting narratives, the Grimms explore complex ideas in a format that entertains and teaches moral lessons to readers of all ages.
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