The author includes excerpts from two versions of the story of "Rapunzel" to show how the Grimms added details to make the story more vivid for readers. The comparison highlights the differences in style and elaboration between the first and seventh editions, demonstrating how the tales were refined and expanded to enhance their appeal and depth.
In contrast to the final 1857 edition, most of the tales in the first edition are shorter and sparser. They have a rawness that was later to be refined. For example, “Rapunzel” is embellished a great deal in the final edition:
First Edition
Once upon a time there lived a husband and wife who had been wishing for a child for many years, but it had all been in vain. Finally, the woman became pregnant.
Now, in the back of their house the couple had a small window that overlooked a fairy’s garden filled with all kinds of flowers and herbs. But nobody ever dared to enter it.
Seventh Edition
Once upon a time there was a husband and wife who for quite some time had been wishing in vain for a child. Finally, the dear Lord gave the wife a sign of hope that their wish would be fulfilled. Now, in the back of their house the couple had a small window that overlooked a splendid garden filled with the most beautiful flowers and herbs. The garden, however, was surrounded by a high wall, and nobody dared enter it because it belonged to a sorceress, who was very powerful and feared by all.
–“How the Grimm Brothers Saved
the Fairy Tale,”
Jack Zipes
Why does the author include excerpts from two versions of the story of "Rapunzel”?
to show that there are different versions of the same story told in different cultures
to show how the Grimms added details to make the story more vivid for readers
to show that the last edition was more informative and engaging than the first
to tell the story twice to ensure that readers understand the plot and characters in the story
1 answer
1 answer