Phony Ap-pea-rances: ‘The Princess and the Pea’

Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tale reverses the old adage: All that glitters is not gold.

A 1919 illustration for Hans Christian Anderson’s story "The Princess and the Pea,” by Edmund Dulac. Public Domain

In his fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea“ (also known as ”The Real Princess"), Hans Christian Andersen shows the need to look beyond appearances. His amusing tale demonstrates that, underneath dirt and grime there can lie something truly beautiful, precious, and waiting for.

A Princess Pursuit

Once upon a time, a prince wishes above all else to find a young lady to marry. His one stipulation is that she must be a real princess.

With a mind set on matrimony, he sets out to find a perspective bride. His mission takes him to families all around the world.