The Princess and the Pea

Hans Christian Anderson, a danish writer of both prose and poetry, is one of the most esteemed fairy-tale writers of the 19th century. He has numerous pieces of literature published: fiction, short stories, travel diaries, and poems; he has acquired much acclaim for his fabulous children’s stories, the illuminating factor of his métier. At the beginning of his career, he was quite underrated (just as most historical masterminds are). It was not until later in his life that people paid attention to him. By his death he had won international fame and accolades. His writings are now translated into more than 150 languages. The Princess and the Pea, only one of the illustrious fairy tales written by this author, is known throughout the world and considered great. Withstanding such a test of time, Anderson’s writings should be read and enjoyed by all people.

There once was a prince who desperately wanted to get married. He traveled around the world, but could not find the perfect girl for him. Every putative princess had a defect that the prince could not live with, or the girl was no true princess; he must marry a real princess. He returned home, discouraged--without a bride. One dark and rainy night, there was a knock on the palace door. The king opened it and there stood a cold, wet, and bedraggled princess. The queen, immediately putting her to the test to discover if she was a true princess, pilled high the bed where the supposed princess was to sleep. Between the layers of mattresses, she laid a single pea. In the morning she asked if the princess has slept well. Contrarily, the poor princess had, had one of the most uncomfortable nights--she had felt something very hard in her bed and could not get even one wink of sleep. Needless to say, she passed the test and married the prince. Together they lived happily ever after.

As a fable written specifically for children, though teens and adults alike can appreciate the story, it is not only pleasurable and dramatic, but also easy to read. In this narrative, Anderson uses clear sentence structures and vocabulary choices to perspicuously express the action and describe the marvelous details. Also, the message of this account is pellucid. From the beginning to the end, the aim of the story is for the prince to find an authentic “princess-bride.” Though there are some trials, the fairy-tale does end well and the goal is achieved.

There is nothing unusual about a man looking for a wife; why then would it be strange to read about it in a story? it is not. The Princess and the Pea is simply one man’s quest to find his destined soul-mate. A prince returns home from searching for a beloved wife, empty-handed. Then, as fate would have it, a princess is thrust into his path. What should he do, but start to figure out if the young lady is his perfect match? Mother, father, and prince work together and realize that this princess is the young woman whom he should marry. Without further ado, the prince and princess marry. Once a couple has found that they are right for each other, the engagement should be of short duration as they prepare to spend the rest of their lives together.

The Princess and the Pea is based in reality and, though it includes some atypical qualities to keep the plot exciting and interesting, it is easy to relate to. The characters are understandable and relate well to each other in all situations. It could easily be a true story as people marry everyday. Magical in nature, the plot is entirely conceivable: men and women are brought together in all sorts of ways and in what may seem unlikely situations. What does it matter, if the couple is happy and content? In all their dealings, the courtly family and their distinguished guest, they are courteous and gracious with each other. This account is an excellent example of logical yet practical propriety.

It is always good to broaden one’s mind, what better material to start with than a renowned fable written by a famous author? By pursuing this story, the reader will reap multi-fold rewards. Imagination is a skill that is all too unfamiliar in today’s modern society. American culture has been so dominated by facts, laws, and intellectual boxes that to get out of this restricting mentality takes a deal of effort. One of the first places to start redeeming the creative capabilities of civilization is with reading basic, but, as G.K, Chesterton suggests, extraordinary literature that requires innovative faculties to engage. Secondly, reading fairy tales is a great way to introduce people to the vast world of the classics and the “great conversation.” Another reason for reading this fairy story is simply for pleasure. No matter what, The Princess and the Pea is and always will be an outstanding paradigm for all ages.

In summary, Anderson’s fairytales are extremely well written. The fact that the juvenile fairy-stories have lasted for ages and continue to intrigue both young and old, is a distinct sign of a true classic. Among many other qualities of this piece of literature, this story is coherent, understandable, believable, reasonable, and possibly even true. The Princess and the Pea is not only clear in message and content, but it is a timeless account that is worthy of being read. By immersing oneself in the tangible story of a lovelorn prince and following him to the end, when he meets his “princess charming,” the reader will find delight in the entertainment available at the turn of a page. To conclude: The Princess and the Pea is fantastic and a great read for people of all ages and literary backgrounds.