Presented in both their original German and English translations, these Three Tales of Consequence are united by a common theme and a dire warning—it is never wise to make a deal with the devil.
Rumpelstilzchen or “Rumpelstiltskin” – in which a miller’s daughter, desperate to spin straw into gold, deals away her firstborn child in exchange for a name.
Der Bärenhäuter or “Bearskin” – in which a soldier trades his life and likeness for love and riches.
Das Mädchen Ohne Hände or “The Maiden without Hands” – in which an unsuspecting miller signs his daughter over to the devil.
This edition of “Three Tales of Consequence” will also feature original wood engravings artwork by Rebecca Gilbert.
Originally published as the December 2022 dispatch
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm were German scholars and authors whose collection of fairy tales became one of the most influential works in world literature. Their most well-known works include Children’s and Household Tales and Grimms’ Fairy Tales, which introduced readers to stories such as Cinderella, Rapunzel, and Little Red Riding Hood. The Brothers Grimm safeguarded a rich tradition of folklore and shaped the modern fairy tale genre.
Born in Hanau, Germany, Jacob (1785-1863) and Wilhelm (1786-1859) studied law before developing a lifelong interest in language and folklore. In addition to collecting and publishing folk tales, they made significant contributions to linguistics snd the study of German literature. Their stories have since been translated into hundreds of languages and adapted across countless books, films, and other forms of media.
