A Talisman of Contentment: Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tale ‘The Talisman’

In this tale from the mid-19th century, it turns out that a long-sought talisman of contentment was actually close at hand.
A Talisman of Contentment: Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tale ‘The Talisman’
"Happy Lovers," circa 1760 and circa 1765, by Jean-Honoré Fragonard. Oil on canvas; 35 1/2 inches by 47 3/4 inches. Public Domain
Kate Vidimos
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Though the world often touts the “next best thing” as the means of obtaining happiness, in his fairy tale “The Talisman,” Hans Christian Andersen showed that true contentment is quite simple. Anyone can obtain it, if they put their mind to it.
A young prince and princess have just been married and are still on their honeymoon. Yet their minds grow restless at the thought of losing their extreme happiness.

A Talisman

In an attempt to retain their current happiness, the royal couple search for a talisman to protect them from all the unhappiness that may threaten their marriage. They visit a very famous wise man, hoping that he can provide them with the talisman they seek.
Kate Vidimos
Kate Vidimos
Author
Kate Vidimos is a 2020 graduate from the liberal arts college at the University of Dallas, where she received her bachelor’s degree in English. She plans on pursuing all forms of storytelling (specifically film) and is currently working on finishing and illustrating a children’s book.