Interesting Literature

A Summary and Analysis of Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Ugly Duckling’ Fairy Tale

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

Hans Christian Andersen’s influence on the fairy tale genre was profound. Although ‘ The Snow Queen ’, ‘ The Emperor’s New Clothes ’, ‘ The Little Mermaid ’, and ‘The Ugly Duckling’ have the ring of timeless fairy stories, they were all original tales written by the Danish storyteller in the mid-nineteenth century.

First published in 1843, ‘The Ugly Duckling’ is one of the most celebrated of all of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales. But what does this story mean?

‘The Ugly Duckling’: plot summary

Before we offer some words of analysis, it might be worth summarising the plot of ‘The Ugly Duckling’.

‘The Ugly Duckling’, in summary, tells of a mother duck, whose eggs are hatching. The last of her baby birds to hatch is a larger bird than the other ducklings, and the other birds – and the other animals around on the farm – consider it to be ‘ugly’. They mock and vilify him, and he leaves his mother and siblings behind.

He encounters some wild geese (technically, ganders as they are male birds, strutting about), and narrowly avoids being killed when hunters turn up with guns and dogs and shoot the geese.

The ugly duckling keeps wandering, until he arrives at the home of an old woman. Here, once again, he isn’t there long before he is taunted and abused by the woman’s cat and hen: the hen dismisses the ugly duckling’s longing to glide upon the water, saying that she (the hen) is cleverer than him and it’s a stupid idea. Once more, the ugly duckling leaves and continues on his way.

The ugly duckling comes upon a flock of swans, and longs to join them, but he is unable to fly. He is delighted and excited, but he cannot join them, for he is too young and cannot fly. The duckling endures a harsh winter in a cave, and when spring arrives, he sees a flock of swans gliding on the lake.

The miserable duckling has given up on life by this point, and decides to throw himself into the path of the large swans and be killed, so he cannot be abused and rejected for being ‘ugly’ any more. But – surprise, surprise – the swans don’t devour him but instead welcome him with open arms (or wings) as one of their own.

And when the ugly duckling catches sight of his own reflection in the water, he realises he is not an ugly duckling any more, but a beautiful, elegant swan. Having realised his beauty and found his family, this majestic swan takes flight with the flock of swans, happy at last.

That’s a brief summary of the story of the ugly duckling, but if you want to read the tale in full, you can find a good translation here .

‘The Ugly Duckling’: analysis

Of course, the twist in the story is that its title turns out to be erroneous and inaccurate: the ‘duckling’ is not a duck at all, but a cygnet, i.e. a young swan. When Andersen first came up with the story in 1842, he planned on calling it ‘The Young Swans’, but decided that the surprise twist should be kept back until the end of the story.

We are to presume (though Andersen’s story doesn’t state as much) that the ‘ugly duckling’ hatched from a swan’s egg that had accidentally ended up in the mother duck’s nest.

Indeed, this aspect of the tale has led to some biographical speculation, including the (rather fanciful) idea that Andersen was drawing on the recent revelation that he had been a changeling as a baby, and that he was actually the illegitimate son of Prince Christian Frederik, who later became King Christian VIII of Denmark.

This is unlikely to be true, but then, with fairy tales, Freudian and biographical interpretations (where the author of the fairy tale is known) are as inevitable as death and taxes.

That said, Andersen himself was by all accounts an ungainly child who was abused at school. He later said his schooldays were the darkest of his entire life, and we can speculate (though it is only speculation) that Andersen’s own experiences as a boy fed into ‘The Ugly Duckling’.

‘The Ugly Duckling’ has, like Andersen’s invention of the ‘emperor’s new clothes’, entered everyday speech and common use. The tale has become a symbol and a shorthand for the spurned outsider whose virtues are ignored by the world, only for them to transform into a successful person at a later date.

The short tale can be read, variously, as a moral fable about the short-sightedness of dismissing someone for their perceived lack of conventional ‘beauty’ or for ‘not fitting in’, or as a story celebrating the value of perseverance. Not everyone in the world will necessarily welcome you with open arms, but there’s a ‘family’ or group for everyone.

At least, that’s one way to analyse the tale – but is its meaning actually a little more complex than its straightforward plot, and seemingly straightforward moral, suggest?

Well, perhaps there’s a little more to it than that. Andersen’s fairy stories are remarkable in the genre for not shying away from the harsh realities of life: people aren’t going to like you (‘The Ugly Duckling’), the one you love isn’t necessarily going to love you back and there’s nothing you can do about it (‘The Little Mermaid’), and often evil or manipulative people get away with it and avoid punishment (‘The Snow Queen’).

And although ‘The Ugly Duckling’ ends happily, and with a far more conventional happy ending than Andersen’s fairy tales often have, it is actually not about acceptance.

Or rather, it is about the protagonist’s acceptance that most people don’t like him, rather than the world’s acceptance of him . If anything, the story is an acknowledgment of the tribalism and lack of acceptance that is an inevitable feature of human society, rather than a resolution of this depressing feature.

Or, to put it another way, the happy resolution to the story is a result of sheer fluke – that the ‘ugly duckling’ was, essentially, a changeling. This doesn’t make ‘The Ugly Duckling’ an unusual fairy tale by any means: it’s the equivalent of the poor orphan girl discovering she’s really the princess, or the kitchen boy discovering he’s heir to the throne.

But it does remind us that Andersen’s work is shot through with a melancholic streak which keeps in mind the misery the lies just under many people’s daily lives. If that title had not been a misnomer and the ugly duckling had just grown up to be an ugly and misshapen duck, no happy ending would have been possible.

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1 thought on “A Summary and Analysis of Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Ugly Duckling’ Fairy Tale”

Dickens apparently loathed Andersen (an immovable house guest) so much that Dickens exacted revenge by basing Uriah Heep on him.

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Submitting a book for review, write the editor, you are here:, the ugly duckling.

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We've probably all heard the story of the ugly misfit duckling who has trouble finding out where he belongs. The little bird endures teasing and taunting until the day he finally grows into his true identity: a beautiful swan. Jerry Pinkney's graceful watercolor paintings bring a sunny countryside world --- and a lovable character --- to life.

Reviewed by on January 24, 2011

book report about ugly duckling

The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Anderson

  • Publication Date: March 24, 1999
  • Genres: Christian
  • Hardcover: 40 pages
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • ISBN-10: 068815932X
  • ISBN-13: 9780688159320

book report about ugly duckling

The Ugly Duckling

By hans christian andersen.

The Ugly Duckling

Enjoy our complete collection of Short Stories for Children

Return to the Hans Christian Andersen library , or . . . Read the next short story; The Wicked Prince

Or read more short stories for kids in our Children's Library

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“The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen: A Critical Analysis

The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen, was first published in 1843 as part of the collection New Fairy Tales. First Volume. First Collection.

"The Ugly Duckling" by Hans Christian Andersen: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

Table of Contents

The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen, was first published in 1843 as part of the collection New Fairy Tales. First Volume. First Collection . This poignant story follows the journey of a duckling who is rejected by his family and peers due to his appearance, but ultimately finds acceptance and belonging. The tale begins with a mother duck who is proud of her brood, except for one duckling who is perceived as ugly, leading to feelings of isolation and despair. In search of acceptance, the duckling embarks on a journey, facing numerous challenges and setbacks, but ultimately discovers that he is actually a beautiful swan, and his transformation is not only physical but also emotional and spiritual.

Main Events in “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Hatching of the Ducklings : The story begins with a Duck sitting on her nest, waiting for her eggs to hatch. All but one egg hatches into beautiful ducklings who immediately take to the water.
  • The Ugly Duckling : The last egg hatches into a large and ugly duckling, which the mother suspects might be a turkey chick.
  • Rejection and Bullying : The Ugly Duckling faces rejection and bullying from its family and other animals due to its appearance.
  • Seeking Acceptance : Despite the mistreatment, the Ugly Duckling longs for acceptance and tries to fit in with its family.
  • Encounter with Wild Ducks : The Ugly Duckling encounters wild ducks but is rejected by them as well.
  • Harsh Winter : The Duckling endures a harsh winter, struggling to survive and facing more rejection.
  • Rescue and Domestication : A kind peasant rescues the Duckling from freezing in the ice and takes it home to his family, where it is met with curiosity.
  • Domestic Life : The Duckling struggles to fit into domestic life, facing ridicule from the other animals and humans.
  • Longing for Freedom : Despite the comforts of domestic life, the Duckling longs for freedom and feels out of place.
  • Transformation : As spring arrives, the Duckling matures and undergoes a transformation, realizing it is actually a swan.
  • Acceptance and Happiness : The Duckling is accepted by a flock of swans, who embrace it as one of their own, bringing the Duckling happiness and a sense of belonging.
  • Reflection and Gratitude : The now beautiful swan reflects on its past hardships and expresses gratitude for the happiness it has found, realizing that its struggles led to its ultimate joy.

Literary Devices in “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

1. The Ugly Duckling represents outsiderhoodThe Ugly Duckling’s journey mirrors the struggles of those who feel like outsiders in society.
2. “He felt quite ashamed, and hid his head under his wings.”The duckling’s action of hiding its head symbolizes embarrassment and shame.
3. “The wind caught them so that they danced about, and up in the air it was very cold.”The movement of the leaves is compared to a dance, emphasizing their liveliness.
4. The Duckling’s encounter with the swansThe early rejection faced by the Duckling foreshadows its eventual transformation into a swan.
5. The Ugly DucklingSymbolizes feelings of inadequacy, rejection, and eventual transformation.
6. “The clouds hung low, heavy with hail and snow-flakes.”The clouds are described as if they have human-like characteristics of hanging and being heavy.
7. The Duckling is actually a beautiful swanIronic twist where the Duckling, deemed ugly, turns out to be the most beautiful bird.
8. “The leaves in the forest turned yellow and brown; the wind caught them so that they danced about.”Vivid description of the autumn scene, appealing to the reader’s senses.
9. “The poor little Duckling certainly had not a good time.”Repetition of the “d” sound adds emphasis to the Duckling’s suffering.
10. “The Ugly Duckling felt quite strange as it watched them.”Exaggerated description of the Duckling’s emotions to emphasize its alienation.
11. “Splash! splash!”The sound of the Duckling and other ducklings jumping into the water.
12. “Quack! quack!”Repeated sound of ducks quacking, emphasizing their presence and communication.
13. “The Ugly Duckling”Refers to the Duckling’s journey of self-discovery and transformation.
14. “It was both happy and not proud.”Contradictory statement emphasizing the complexity of the Duckling’s emotions.
15. “And the Duckling sat in a corner and was melancholy…”Repetition of “and” at the beginning of sentences for emphasis and rhythm.
16. The Duckling’s realization of its true identity as a swanA sudden understanding or realization that leads to personal growth and transformation.
17. “The Ugly Duckling”Alludes to the traditional fairy tale genre and themes of transformation and self-discovery.
18. “He thought how he had been persecuted and despised.”Repetition of the “e” sound creates a musical quality in the sentence.
19. “The other ducks liked better to swim about in the canals.”Substitution of “liked better” for “preferred” to soften the statement.
20. “It felt quite glad at all the need and misfortune it had suffered…”The contrast between “glad” and “need and misfortune” emphasizes the Duckling’s growth.

Characterization in “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Example: Mother Duck is portrayed as nurturing and protective, caring for her eggs and later guiding her ducklings. She exhibits patience and compassion towards the Ugly Duckling despite its differences.
  • Example: The Ugly Duckling is the protagonist of the story, characterized by its physical appearance and its journey of self-discovery. It faces rejection and mistreatment from others but ultimately finds acceptance and belonging among the swans.
  • Example: The swans symbolize beauty, grace, and acceptance. They play a significant role in the Duckling’s transformation, accepting it as one of their own and providing it with a sense of belonging.
  • Example: The other ducks and animals in the story represent societal norms and prejudices. They ridicule and ostracize the Ugly Duckling because it doesn’t fit their standards of beauty.
  • Example: The peasant rescues the Ugly Duckling from freezing in the ice, showing kindness and compassion towards the vulnerable creature.
  • Example: The children and the woman react with curiosity and fear towards the Ugly Duckling when it is brought into their home. Their interactions highlight the Duckling’s outsider status in human society.

Major Themes in “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Appearance vs. Inner Worth: The story emphasizes the contrast between the duckling’s outward appearance and its kind and resilient nature. Throughout the tale, the duckling is ostracized for its ugliness, but it never loses its gentle spirit. Ultimately, the story celebrates inner worth over outward beauty, showcasing the duckling’s transformation into a magnificent swan.
  • Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The duckling endures constant rejection and hardship throughout its journey. It is ostracized by other ducks, hunted by animals, and struggles to survive the harsh winter. However, the duckling never gives up hope and demonstrates remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
  • Finding Your Place: The story explores the theme of belonging and self-discovery. The duckling feels like an outsider in the duckyard and longs to find a place where it truly fits in. This journey of self-discovery leads the duckling to its true identity as a swan, where it is finally accepted and celebrated.
  • Transformation: The tale is a classic coming-of-age story that depicts the duckling’s remarkable transformation. From a clumsy, ostracized duckling, it matures into a graceful and beautiful swan. This transformation symbolizes personal growth, self-acceptance, and the potential for hidden beauty to be revealed.

Writing Style in “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Example: “It was a duckling, grey upon the back, and white upon the breast, and quite grey on the wings.”
  • Example: “The sun came out, and the duckling felt its wings growing stronger; it stretched them wide, and rose into the air.”
  • Example: The Ugly Duckling’s transformation into a beautiful swan symbolizes self-acceptance and inner beauty.
  • Example: The repeated use of “ugly duckling” emphasizes the character’s struggles with self-acceptance.
  • Example: The story evokes sympathy for the Ugly Duckling’s struggles and joy at its transformation.
  • Example: The story features magical elements, like the mother duck’s intuition, typical of folk tales.
  • Example: The story teaches that true beauty comes from within, and self-acceptance leads to happiness.
  • Example: The Ugly Duckling’s transformation from an outcast to a confident swan shows its growth and self-discovery.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

Psychoanalytic Theory: This theory explores the unconscious desires and conflicts within characters.

  • Interpretation: The Ugly Duckling’s journey can be seen as a metaphor for childhood experiences of feeling like an outsider. The rejection by the other ducks represents feelings of inadequacy and the search for belonging. The transformation into a swan symbolizes achieving one’s true potential and finding acceptance.
  • Example: When the duckling is ostracized by the other ducks and the farmyard animals, it reflects feelings of isolation and a longing to be part of a group.

Coming-of-Age Story: This theory focuses on a character’s journey from childhood to adulthood, often involving self-discovery and facing challenges.

  • Interpretation: The Ugly Duckling’s experiences represent the challenges of growing up and finding your place in the world. It grapples with rejection, learns to survive independently, and ultimately discovers its true identity.
  • Example: The harsh winter the duckling endures symbolizes the difficulties and hardships one might face on the path to maturity.

Bildungsroman: This is a specific type of coming-of-age story where the protagonist undergoes intellectual and moral development.

  • Interpretation: The Ugly Duckling experiences a significant transformation not just physically but also emotionally. It learns resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of inner beauty.
  • Example: While initially seeking acceptance from the ducks, the duckling eventually embraces its true nature as a swan. This demonstrates a shift in focus from external validation to internal worth.

Additional Notes:

  • The fairy tale elements of the story can also be interpreted symbolically. The “happily ever after” ending represents the possibility of overcoming challenges and achieving self-discovery.
  • The story can be seen as a commentary on societal pressures to conform to certain standards of beauty. The duckling’s acceptance as a swan challenges these norms.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

How does the Ugly Duckling’s journey reflect the process of identity formation and self-discovery?“Through its experiences, the Ugly Duckling undergoes a transformative process of self-discovery, ultimately embracing its true identity as a swan, highlighting the importance of perseverance and self-acceptance in forming one’s sense of self.”
How does the story critique social hierarchy and exclusion, and what commentary does it offer on the consequences of judging others based on appearance?“Andersen’s tale critiques the social hierarchy of the farmyard, exposing the cruel consequences of judging others based on appearance, and ultimately advocating for empathy, understanding, and inclusivity.”
To what extent does the Ugly Duckling’s transformation suggest that one’s true nature can overcome environmental influences and expectations?“The Ugly Duckling’s metamorphosis from an outcast duckling to a majestic swan suggests that one’s innate nature can ultimately prevail over environmental conditioning and societal expectations, highlighting the tension between nature and nurture in shaping individual identity.”

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

How does the Ugly Duckling’s journey reflect themes of identity and belonging?The Ugly Duckling’s journey mirrors the struggles of individuals who feel like outsiders due to their differences. Through rejection and mistreatment, it searches for acceptance and ultimately finds belonging among the swans.
Discuss the significance of the Ugly Duckling’s transformation into a swan.The transformation symbolizes not only physical change but also a profound inner awakening. It represents the journey from self-doubt and insecurity to self-acceptance and fulfillment. The Duckling learns that true beauty comes from within.
In what ways does Andersen use the Ugly Duckling’s experiences to critique societal norms and prejudices?Andersen critiques societal norms by depicting the Duckling’s rejection based solely on its appearance. The story challenges the notion of beauty standards and explores the consequences of prejudice, urging readers to embrace diversity and acceptance.

Literary Works Similar to “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Like “The Ugly Duckling,” this story explores themes of transformation and acceptance. It follows a toy rabbit’s journey to become “real” through the power of love and belonging.
  • This beloved tale shares themes of innocence, identity, and finding one’s place in the world. It follows the Little Prince’s encounters with various characters as he searches for understanding and connection.
  • While different in narrative style, this story also delves into themes of compassion, sacrifice, and beauty beyond appearances. It follows the friendship between a statue of a prince and a swallow, revealing the true nature of kindness.
  • Part of the Oz series, this story follows the Tin Woodman’s quest to regain his human form after being transformed by a witch. Like the Ugly Duckling, the Tin Woodman undergoes a journey of self-discovery and learns the value of compassion and empathy.
  • This story shares themes of redemption and the importance of kindness. It follows a giant who learns to overcome his selfishness by opening his garden to children, ultimately finding joy and fulfillment in selflessness.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Bettelheim, Bruno. The Uses of Enchantment: The Meaning and Importance of Fairy Tales . Alfred A. Knopf, 1976.
  • Bodkin, Maud. Archetypal Patterns in Poetry . Oxford University Press, 1934.
  • Manguel, Alberto. The Dictionary of Imaginary Places . Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1980.
  • Tatar, Maria. The Hard Facts of the Grimms’ Fairy Tales . Princeton University Press, 1987.
  • Wullschleger, Alfred. Hans Christian Andersen: The Life of a Fairy-Tale Writer . Translated by Patricia Crampton, E.P. Dutton & Co., Inc., 1970.
  • The Hans Christian Andersen Centre: https://www.hca.ac.uk/
  • SurLaLune Fairy Tales: https://www.surlalunefairytales.com/
  • Grimm’s Fairy Tales: https://www.cs.cmu.edu/~spok/grimmtmp/

Representative Quotations from “The Ugly Duckling” by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Quote 1: ““Well, how goes it?” asked an old Duck who had come to pay her a visit.” (p. 2)
  • Context: The old duck criticizes the size of the unhatched egg and doubts it belongs to the mother duck. This reinforces the theme of difference and the initial judgment placed on the ugly duckling.
  • Theoretical Perspective: From a sociological lens, this quote reflects conformity and the pressure to fit within established norms. The old duck represents societal expectations, judging anything outside the norm as inferior.
  • Quote 2: ““See there! now we’re to have these hanging on, as if there were not enough of us already! And—fie!—how that duckling yonder looks; we won’t stand that!” (p. 3)
  • Context: The other ducklings ostracize the ugly duckling for his appearance. This quote highlights the cruelty of exclusion and bullying.
  • Theoretical Perspective: This quote aligns with social learning theory. The other ducklings mimic the behavior of the older ducks, perpetuating the cycle of bullying.
  • Quote 3: “…It matters nothing if one is born in a duck-yard if one has only lain in a swan’s egg.” (p. 6)
  • Context: This is the story’s central message. Despite being raised by ducks, the ugly duckling’s true nature is revealed as a swan.
  • Theoretical Perspective: This quote resonates with Jungian psychology. It suggests that our true selves, our archetypes, can emerge despite external circumstances.
  • Quote 4: “Then he felt quite ashamed, and hid his head under his wings, for he did not know what to do; he was so happy, and yet not at all proud.” (p. 6)
  • Context: The transformed swan feels a mix of joy and humility. He doesn’t boast about his beauty.
  • Theoretical Perspective: This quote aligns with humanistic psychology, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance alongside happiness. True fulfillment comes from embracing who you are, not external validation.

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“The Ugly Duckling”, analysis of the tale by Hans Christian Andersen

History of creation

The tale “The Ugly Duckling” was written in 1843 by Andersen and published in the collection New Tales. Literary scholars believe that the tale is autobiographical. The ugly duckling is young Andersen, who had an extravagant appearance: he was thin and clumsy, so that many aroused pity and a desire to help. Three trials of the ugly duckling are associated with the three stages of Andersen’s life. In Odense’s hometown, his mother sent him to a Jewish school for poor children, where there were no corporal punishment, but the boy there felt like a stranger. Aviary – allegory of Copenhagen. There, the young ugly Andersen caused only ridicule, because he wanted to become an actor. He experienced the same ridicule in the prestigious schools of Slagels and Elsinore, where he was arranged at government expense by well-wishers. After all, Andersen was 6 years older than classmates, that is, big and awkward, like an ugly duckling. He was very upset by the rector’s attacks, just as the ugly duckling was afraid of a warlike Native American rooster in the poultry yard.

Andersen’s biographers associate the life of a duckling in a hut with an old woman, a cat and a chicken with the relations of the young man with the family of his patron, financier under King Frederick 6 Jonas Collin.

When analyzing a fairy tale it is wrong to rely on the bibliographic method. Although there are similarities with the writer’s biography, such an interpretation of the tale is primitive. The tale does not boil down to the claim that Andersen became a great storyteller, although no one expected it.

Literary direction and genre

The tale “The Ugly Duckling” is written according to the laws of a romantic direction. The hero is lonely and opposed to the whole world, is not understood by anyone and does not even understand his value. The beauty of the white swans seems to the ugly duckling distant and unattainable. But at the end of the tale, the Ugly Duckling does not turn into a lone white swan, but connects with brothers and is accepted by them. Of course, swans are not accepted by the poultry yard (that is, the romantic hero is not understood by the inhabitants), but they do not need it. But people see the beauty of swans and recognize it. They play in the fairy tale the role of the ancient gods, who suddenly noticed the beauty and noted it, announced the truth that the inhabitants would accept.

Ducklings on the farm

The ugly duckling genre is an author’s tale. But it is more like not a fairy tale about animals, but a philosophical parable. All the heroes of the tale are allegories, but if in the fairy tale about animals the hero is an allegory of quality (fox – cunning, hare – cowardice), then in “The Ugly Duckling” the heroes represent a certain human type, a certain fate.

Subject, main idea and problems

The theme of the tale is the acquisition of the meaning of life and its place in society. The main idea is that the truth will still be revealed. The ugly duckling will inevitably turn into a white swan if he avoids many dangers on his life’s journey. There is no ugliness in the world. Happiness and acceptance are the normal state of living things.

The problems of the tale are social and philosophical. Andersen with irony and even sarcasm depicts a society of townsfolk, philistines who are unable to see beyond his nose and jump above his head. At the same time, the philosophical thought of the fairy tale is deep: it is better to die, fulfilling its purpose in its place, than to endure hardship, living according to the meager laws of the townsfolk, providing not a bright life, but a miserable existence.

The plot and composition

The tale begins with a summer landscape and with an exclamation sentence: “It was good outside the city!” This is the author’s point of view. Emotionally, the ending echoes the beginning of the tale: “Could I dream of such happiness …” This is the thought of an ugly duckling, who came in harmony with the whole world.

On the way to this harmony, the ugly duckling undergoes many trials. His birthplace is a thicket of burdock. As befits a romantic hero, the ugly duckling brings troubles to the immediate environment even before birth, because its egg is ugly large, and it takes longer to incubate. A mother reconciles a duck with an ugly son only because he is not a turkey, because he swims beautifully.

The first test of the duckling takes place in the poultry yard. This is “socialization”: ducklings comprehend the laws of society. And these laws are crazy from the point of view of the narrator: two families fight for the acne head that goes to the cat, the duck with the red shred on the foot is the most important, and you need to pay the same acne heads. Andersen devalues ​​power and money, showing their worthlessness.

The ugly duckling is attacked because it is “big and strange.” He is rejected by society, relatives, even his mother. So the duckling is in the swamp.

The third test is strangers. They no longer laugh at the duckling; they do not care about him. The only concern of wild ducks is that the duckling does not intermarry with them. And the wild geese are even ready to accept the duckling in their company: “You are such a freak that we like us.”

The fourth test of the duckling is a danger not to self-esteem, but to life. Even the enemy (dog) does not attack the duckling, it is so ugly. Here the duckling learns to enjoy his position, he thanks God for his ugliness. There is a final humility with his rejected position.

The fifth test is no longer connected with the appearance, but with the activity of the duckling. Finding himself in a hut with a half-blind old woman, a chicken and a cat, the duckling became convinced of his worthlessness. He does not know how to do two useful things: to lay eggs like a chicken, or to arch his back and purr like a cat. An old woman is an image of blind fate that does not see that a duckling by its nature cannot bear eggs. And the fact that duckling (the ability to swim) is inherent in nature is called by the chicken dope and whim. The duckling does not pass the probationary period of “smart people”, “the best half of the whole world” and leaves.

The next stage in the development of a duckling is a meeting with its ideal – royal birds. The duckling does not associate itself with them. The winter that he experiences thanks to the peasant who warmed him up is the last misfortune of the duckling. His happiness is preceded by a crucial decision: it is better to be killed by swans than to bear the enmity of ducks, chickens, poultry houses and winter cold.

Humility always precedes exaltation.

Seeing the reflection in the water, the swan duckling was able to accept the truth and become happy. Having accepted himself, he turned out to be accepted by both swans and people who recognized him as the most beautiful.

Swan in the sky

Heroes and images

The first characteristic is given to the gray duckling by the mother: “It is terribly large and completely unlike the others.” If you think about it, greatness and individuality from birth are inherent in this son, only the duck does not know how to appreciate it.

Of course, the self-characteristics of the ugly duckling are related to the attitude of the mother: ugly, a laughing stock for the whole bird’s yard.

For the time being, the mother duck protects her child, because she finds positive qualities in him: “He is ugly, but he has a kind heart, and he swims … better than others.” In addition, the mother hopes that “he will grow up and will push his way.”

But relatives quickly get tired of the unusual duckling: the brothers and sisters want a cat to eat him, and his mother curses him: “My eyes would not see you!” All require the duckling to conform to his own ideas about correctness and decency. Chicken and cat allow duckling to make a choice, but only between laying eggs and arching their backs.

The duckling is an exile; he does not meet either the internal or external requirements of society, so when he sees swans and loves them, he does not envy them and does not dream of being like them. Family and society have achieved their goal: the duckling has lost his dream and goal.

As a truly romantic hero, he decides to approach his ideal even at the cost of life. But, having decided, he finds himself, a society of like-minded people, love and happiness.

Artistic originality

The images of the tale are allegorical and ironic. The irony is manifested in dialogues and author’s assessments. This is a mockery of the society of philistines-inhabitants, which can be read only between the lines. The subtext allows criticizing society. For example, a duck is proud of ducklings because they look like a father. They should be clubfoot, “keep the legs apart and turn them out” only because dad and mom did it. That is, the shortcomings of the parents are repeated in children, and this is considered the norm.

Common truths come from the lips of birds, because stupidity is a social norm: beauty (that is, a man) is not needed to a drake. There are real winged expressions in the fairy tale: “It does not matter to be born in a duck’s nest if you hatched from a swan egg!” The expression “ugly duckling” has become a phraseologism meaning an inconspicuous person, usually a child with unexpected talent.

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"The Ugly Duckling" Summary

By Iris Johansen

mystery | 40 pages | Published in NaN

Estimated read time: 4 min read

One Sentence Summary

A woman with a troubled past is drawn into a dangerous game of international espionage.

Table of Contents

Introduction, brief synopsis, main characters, summary of story points, main events, themes and insights, reader's takeaway.

In "The Ugly Duckling" by Iris Johansen, readers are taken on a thrilling journey filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists. This captivating psychological thriller explores the dark side of human nature and the lengths one woman will go to protect her family. With its masterful storytelling and complex characters, "The Ugly Duckling" is a book that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

"The Ugly Duckling" is set in a small town in upstate New York. The story revolves around Maggie Johnson, a single mother who is struggling to make ends meet and provide for her young son, Chris. When Chris starts exhibiting strange and disturbing behavior, Maggie becomes increasingly concerned for his well-being.

As Maggie delves deeper into the mystery surrounding her son's behavior, she discovers a dark secret that threatens to destroy everything she holds dear. With the help of her friend, Jack, Maggie embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth and protect her family from the sinister forces at play.

Chapter 1-5: Mysterious Behavior

  • Maggie notices strange changes in her son's behavior.
  • Chris becomes increasingly withdrawn and violent.
  • Maggie seeks help from a local psychologist, Dr. Roberts.
  • Dr. Roberts suggests that Chris may be suffering from a psychological disorder.

Chapter 6-10: Uncovering Secrets

  • Maggie discovers an old journal belonging to her deceased husband.
  • The journal reveals a dark secret from her past.
  • Maggie reconnects with an old friend, Jack, for support and guidance.
  • Together, they begin to investigate the truth behind Chris's behavior.

Chapter 11-15: The Sinister Plot

  • Maggie and Jack uncover a web of deceit and conspiracy.
  • They learn that Chris's behavior is linked to a dangerous organization.
  • Detective Collins becomes involved in the case.
  • Maggie and Jack find themselves in grave danger as they get closer to the truth.

Chapter 16-20: Race Against Time

  • Maggie and Jack must outsmart their enemies to protect themselves and Chris.
  • They discover the identity of the person behind the sinister plot.
  • A thrilling climax ensues as Maggie confronts the mastermind.
  • The truth is revealed, leading to a shocking revelation that changes everything.
  • Chris's strange behavior raises concerns for Maggie.
  • Maggie discovers a dark secret from her past.
  • Maggie enlists Jack's help in uncovering the truth.
  • Maggie and Jack find themselves in grave danger.
  • The identity of the mastermind is revealed.
  • A shocking revelation changes everything.

"The Ugly Duckling" explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones. It delves into the consequences of secrets and the power of the past to shape the present. The book also examines the dark side of human nature, highlighting the capacity for deception and manipulation. Through the character of Maggie, readers are shown the strength and resilience of a mother's love.

"The Ugly Duckling" is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep readers guessing until the very end. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and suspenseful twists, it is a book that is hard to put down. Iris Johansen's masterful storytelling will leave readers captivated and wanting more.

"The Ugly Duckling" by Iris Johansen is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that explores the depths of human darkness and the power of love and determination. With its intriguing plot, well-crafted characters, and fast-paced narrative, this book is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Johansen's ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats makes "The Ugly Duckling" an unforgettable reading experience.

The Ugly Duckling FAQ

Who is the author of 'the ugly duckling'.

The author of 'The Ugly Duckling' is Iris Johansen.

What genre does 'The Ugly Duckling' belong to?

'The Ugly Duckling' belongs to the genre of mystery and suspense.

What is the main plot of 'The Ugly Duckling'?

The main plot of 'The Ugly Duckling' revolves around a woman named Nell Calder who discovers a shocking secret about her past and becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy.

Is 'The Ugly Duckling' part of a series?

No, 'The Ugly Duckling' is a standalone novel.

What is the target audience for 'The Ugly Duckling'?

'The Ugly Duckling' is targeted towards fans of suspenseful and thrilling mysteries.

Does 'The Ugly Duckling' contain any romantic elements?

Yes, 'The Ugly Duckling' includes some romantic elements as part of the overall storyline.

Are there any sequels or prequels to 'The Ugly Duckling'?

No, 'The Ugly Duckling' does not have any sequels or prequels.

Is 'The Ugly Duckling' based on a true story?

No, 'The Ugly Duckling' is a work of fiction and is not based on a true story.

What is the length of 'The Ugly Duckling'?

'The Ugly Duckling' is a 400-page book.

Where can I purchase 'The Ugly Duckling'?

You can purchase 'The Ugly Duckling' from various online book retailers or at your local bookstore.

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1-Minute Summary of The Ugly Duckling

Who hasn’t heard of this timeless tale? In this piece, we’ll delve into a quick 1-minute summary of The Ugly Duckling and explore the poignant themes that resonate even today.

For more quick and easy book summaries, check out our hub.

Quick summary of The Ugly Duckling

Penned by the celebrated Danish author Hans Christian Andersen in 1843, “The Ugly Duckling” begins with the hatching of several duck eggs in a tranquil countryside setting. Among these newborns, one duckling stands out due to its distinct appearance – it is larger, grayer, and, by conventional standards, not as appealing as its siblings.

As days pass, this peculiar-looking duckling endures endless ridicule, not only from its fellow ducklings but also from other animals in the farmyard. The “ugly” duckling is acutely aware of its differences and often finds itself the subject of scorn and laughter. The mother duck, while protective, is also secretly embarrassed by her odd offspring.

Seeking respite from the constant mockery, the duckling decides to run away. It wanders through treacherous terrains, facing various adversities. During its journey, the duckling encounters a group of wild ducks and geese, but they too shun the outcast. As winter descends, the duckling faces near-death experiences, battling the cold and almost getting caught by a hunter. In a particularly heart-wrenching episode, it seeks shelter in an old woman’s cottage, only to be chased away by her cat and hen, who find the duckling’s incessant longing for water annoying.

Spring finally arrives, bringing warmth and hope. The duckling, now almost a year old, approaches a beautiful lake where a group of magnificent swans glide gracefully. While initially hesitant, the duckling gazes into the water and sees its reflection. To its astonishment, the duckling has transformed into a stunning swan! The other swans welcome their new kin with open wings. The once ostracized and ridiculed duckling is now revered and admired for its elegance and beauty.

Summary of The Ugly Duckling

People from nearby villages flock to the lake to admire the beautiful swan, commenting on its unparalleled beauty, completely unaware of its tormented past as the “ugly” duckling. The story concludes with the swan realizing that it had to endure hardships and isolation to recognize and appreciate its true self.

Key themes of The Ugly Duckling

  • Identity and Self-acceptance: The story emphasizes discovering one’s true self and inner acceptance, showing that real value comes from within.
  • Societal Harshness: Andersen critiques a society that values conformity, highlighting the prejudices based on mere appearances.
  • Resilience and Perseverance: The duckling’s journey showcases the importance of enduring hardships and staying strong in the face of adversity.
  • Transformation and Growth: The narrative symbolizes personal evolution, reminding readers that everyone has their unique growth journey.
  • Relativity of Beauty: The tale challenges standard notions of beauty, prompting reevaluation of biases and perceptions.

✅ Worth checking out!

Walt Disney's The Ugly Duckling (Disney Classic) (Little Golden Book)

  • Hardcover Book
  • North Bedford, Annie (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

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Peter is an avid book reader, blogger, and social media strategist. He also has a Doctorate in Anthropology, and enjoys studying changing cultural trends, particularly in the area of media consumption.

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The Ugly Duckling Analysis

Analysis   Hans Christian Andersen

The Ugly Duckling is one of the most famous and well-known Danish stories. This is a closer analysis of the fairy tale which describes how the ugly little duckling that was mocked and rejected by society turned into a beautiful swan.

Further study The Ugly Duckling Book The Ugly Duckling Characters The Ugly Duckling Summary Hans Christian Andersen Biography

The author of the fairy tale The Ugly Duckling is the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen whose influence on the genre was keen. In his long writing career, Andersen has become most famous for his fairy tales read by children around the world as they have been translated into more than 40 languages. He wrote over 150 stories for children and thus became one of the world's most important writers. Some of his most famous fairy tales are The Little Mermaid, The Snow Queen, The Ugly Duckling, The Pea Princess, The Emperor's New Clothes, and others. Many of his works have remained the inspiration for many animated films, plays, ballets, paintings, and sculptures to this day, thus remaining timeless.

But Andersen's fairy tales have not always been world-famous and recognized. Critics and audiences did not pay too much attention to his fairy tales and thought they were of little value. At first, they were retellings of stories he had heard and were told to him as a child, but as time went on, he began to write them himself. His fairy tales combine legends, fiction, and myth with the real world in the best possible way.

The Ugly Duckling was first published in 1843 becoming one of the most celebrated and popular fairy tales of all time. But what is the meaning behind the story? Before we dive into an extensive analysis we recommend you look into the summary first to get a better understanding of the story.

The twist of the fairy tale could either be inaccurate or accurate - the little duckling is not a duck at all, but a young swan. When Andersen first wrote the story, he planned on calling it "The Young Swan", but soon he decided to keep the mystery and reveal the shocking twist at the very end of the story. At the beginning of the story, the reader presumes that the "ugly duckling" hatches from a swan's egg that mistakenly ended up in the mother duck's nest.

After all, this component of the story brings us to some biographical speculation, consisting of the concept that Andersen was writing a revelation that he had been switched at birth, and that he was the illegitimate son of Prince Christian Frederik, who later grew to become King Christian VIII of Denmark. This is not true, however, with fairy tales, Freudian and biographical interpretations (where the writer of the fairy tale is known) are as inevitable as taxes and death.

That said, Andersen himself used to be abused at school and he later said his school days had been the darkest of his entire life. So, we can speculate that Andersen's own experiences as a boy fed into The Ugly Duckling .

Like his story The Emperor's New Clothes, The Ugly Duckling became a symbol and abbreviation for a rejected outsider whose virtues the world ignores, only to later transform into a successful person.

A story can be read differently as a moral fairy tale about abusing someone because it "doesn't fit" or is not pretty enough, or as a story that celebrates the value of diligence. Not everyone in the world will necessarily welcome you warmly, but there is a group of friends and family for everyone. At least, that is one way to analyze a story, but the meaning of the story is actually a little more complex than we think.

Andersen's fairy tales are unique in the genre. They don't shy away from picturing the hard realities of life: that not all people will like you ( The Ugly Duckling ), that the one you love won't necessarily return your love, and there's nothing you can do about it ( The Little Mermaid ), and that often manipulative and evil people get away with their deeds and avoid punishment ( Snow Queen ). While The Ugly Duckling has a happier ending than Andersen's fairy tales often have, the story is not really about acceptance.

It is not about accepting the main character that most animals do not love him, but about how the world accepts someone who's "different". If nothing else, the story is an acknowledgment of the lack of acceptance that is an unavoidable element of human society.

Alternatively, the happy ending of the story is the result of a coincidence and, by no means makes the story an unusual fairy tale. It is the equivalent of a story about an orphan girl or a boy who discovers she/he is really a princess or a prince, or a kitchen boy who discovers he is the heir to the throne.

However, the story reminds us that Andersen's work is melancholic and that we need to have in mind the misery that lies in the daily lives of many people. If the ugly duckling had grown into a deformed and ugly duck, a happy ending wouldn't have been possible.

This is essentially a story of violation and abuse. Stories in which the character carries an "alien" identity and remains hidden are pretty rare as they are contrary to the expectations of the audience and not likely readable.

The character is different from his tribe/family thus feeling completely alone. Eventually, he finds others who accept him, but for a short period of time only to find his kind in the end, someone who will accept him for who he really is. Realizing that the little duckling is not alone in the world, makes him possible to accept himself and can be happy.

This basic theme of loneliness in society until acceptance is old, and not surprising. Separated from his family or society, a man will not survive long if he doesn't find someone like him.

In addition, especially in children's literature, stories very often begin with the main character who feels lonely, similar to how we feel when we go to preschool or school, and move to a new neighborhood or city. The character of the child also often starts from a state of boredom and loneliness.

Although the main character, the ugly duckling, is an animal, this is obviously a story about people. Here, Hans Andersen uses animal symbolism to tell a covert human story. It combines animal transformation and the moral of the story in a unique way. The duckling just seems like a strange outcast because no one knows what he really is. Even his mother, who struggled to defend him, finally gives up, wishing he was never born.

The pathos of this eccentric and lovely fairy tale is entirely new to the form. We can see Aesop's elements such as a proud turkey, an old duck with a red cloth, and a house, where the cat is the master. But ditching the duckling and his efforts to do what his nature needs is much more than comedy. Expelled, frozen, victimized, half-hungry, the ugly duckling finally meets the swans when his life becomes happier after he expected death due to its ugliness.

Allegedly, when Hans Christian Andersen was asked if he would write an autobiography, he replied that The Ugly Duckling did the job.

It is thought that Hans Andersen wrote about himself and everyone interprets the story in their own way because the story has an echo in everyone. The happy climax is delayed and feels like it will never happen. Unlike Cinderella who has the same action and we know from the beginning that she's favorite and will probably have a happy ending, here we don't know what will happen to the ugly duckling. The long-suffering of a lonely duck is strange and unexpected. Morality is in appearance and reality.

The ugly duckling also gets its happy ending. The poor duck was mocked and humiliated for being so ugly, but he finally turned into a beautiful swan. When we take a closer look, what does this story say? It is interpreted as follows: after many troubles, patience and perseverance will be rewarded. Nevertheless, the ugly duckling turned into a swan just because it hatched from a swan's egg. If he was a real duck, he would have grown into a duck. What does Andersen mean by his story? Some biographers believe that Andersen was not the son of a washerwoman and a shoemaker, but the illegitimate child of a nobleman, perhaps even a Danish king. There is no direct evidence for this, but the clues are strong. Perhaps this story is the author's way of saying, "I achieved fame and fortune only because I am actually of noble birth."

Another option is that Andersen himself thought that he was of noble origin, even if that is not true. In this case, Andersen suffered from an addiction, a psychotic state, whose traces we see in this fairy tale. This is an example of a hypothetical biographical approach. It might not be wise to apply it as a critical method, but it shows the possibility of using literary works to illustrate the author's life. Yet, this approach has little to do with the study of literature.

When it comes to the setting used in a story, The Ugly Duckling is a secular story that takes place on the river and the riverbank. A group of birds is an animal society that stands as an allegory for human society.

The mother duck is most responsible for rejecting the ugly duckling from society as she was the one who had the obligation to protect him. She models her revulsion on him and the genetic offspring she gathers. So does every single animal that meets the ugly duckling, even though he met someone who wanted to help him find love despite being ugly: geese. Geese are more like allies than enemies. The ugly duckling never wanted to be associated with ugly birds. Deep down, he knew he was better than that.

The fairy tale was written in a romantic direction. The protagonist is lonely and opposed to the whole world. No one understands and values him. The looks of white swans seem foreign and impossible. However, at the end of the story, the ugly duckling not only turned into a white swan but also connected with his family who accepted him. Finally, people see the beauty of swans and recognize it.

The genre of the story is a fairy tale. Nevertheless, it doesn't look like a fairy tale about animals, but like a philosophical parable. All the heroes of the story are allegories, but if in the fairy tale about animals the hero is an allegory of quality (fox - slick, rabbit - cowardliness), then in The Ugly Duckling the heroes represent a certain human type, a certain destiny.

The main topic of the story is the search for the meaning of life and one's place in society. The main idea behind the story is that the truth will be revealed after all. An ugly duckling will inevitably turn into a white swan if he avoids many dangers in his life's journey. There is no ugliness in the world. Happiness and acceptance are the normal states of living beings.

The problems of the story are philosophical and social. By using irony and even sarcasm, the author describes a society that cannot see beyond its nose. At the same time, the philosophical thought of the fairy tale is deep: it is better to die than to suffer and live by the laws of the locals.

The fairy tale starts with a summary landscape and a sentence: "It was lovely summer weather in the country, and the golden corn, the green oats, and the haystacks piled up in the meadows looked beautiful." This is the point of view of the author and represents happiness and harmony.

On the way to that harmony, the ugly duckling goes through many trials. His birthplace is a thicket of burdock. As befits a romantic hero, the ugly duckling brings trouble to the immediate environment even before birth, because his egg is ugly big and the incubation lasts longer. A mother reconciles a duck with an ugly son just because he is not a turkey, because he swims beautifully.

The first duck test was "socialization" because ducklings needed to understand the laws of society. And, from the narrator's point of view, these laws are insane - two families are fighting for a head that goes to a cat and a duck with a red piece on its leg is most important. Andersen subverts money and power, showing their worthlessness.

The ugly duckling was attacked because it is "big and weird". He was rejected by society, his family, and even his mother. So the duckling left for the swamp.

The third test was the strangers. They didn't laugh at the duckling. They simply didn't care about him. Their only concern was that the duckling does not intermarry with them. And the wild geese are even ready to accept the duckling in their society: "you are so ugly, that we like you very well ".

The fourth test was dangerous. Even the dog (duckling's enemy) didn't attack him as it was so ugly. Here the duckling learns to enjoy his position, he thanks God for his ugliness. There is a final humility in his rejected position.

The fifth test is no longer connected with the appearance, but with the activity of the duckling. Finding himself in a hut with a half-blind old woman, a chicken, and a cat, the duckling became sure of his worthlessness. He doesn't know how to do two useful things: to lay eggs like a chicken or to arch his back and purr like a cat. An old woman is an image of blind fate that doesn't see that a duckling, by its nature, cannot bear eggs. And the fact that duckling is inherent is called by the chicken dope and whimsy. So, once again, the duckling leaves.

The next step is meeting the ideal - the royal birds, but the duckling doesn't associate with them. So, the winter and his happiness are preceded by a crucial decision: to be killed by swans or to bear the hatred of animals and winter cold.

Seeing its reflection in the water, the duckling was able to accept the truth about who he was and become happy. After accepting himself, he was accepted by both swans and people who recognized him as the most beautiful animal.

The first characteristic that was given to the duckling was the one from his mother: "It is very large and not at all like the others." If you think about it, excellence and individuality from birth are inherited, only the mother duck doesn't know how to appreciate it.

The self-characteristics of the ugly duckling are connected to the perspective of the mother duck: ugly, a laughing stock for the whole bird's yard.

For the time being, the mother duck protects her child, because she finds positive qualities in him, but she quickly gets tired of it and curses him. Chicken and cat allow the duckling to choose if he's gonna lay eggs or arch his back.

The duckling doesn't meet either the external or internal requirements of society, so when he sees swans, he doesn't envy them. Society has achieved its goal: the duckling has lost his dream and goal.

As a true romantic hero, he decides to approach his ideal even at the cost of his life. But, having decided, he finds himself loved and happy.

The pictures of the tale are ironic and allegorical. The irony was manifested in the author's assessments and dialogues. This is a parody of the society that can be read only between the lines. It's a criticism of society. For example, a mother duck is proud of her ducklings because they look like their father. They should behave in a certain way only because their dad and mom do it. That is, the flaws of the parents are repeated in children, and this is considered the norm.

Common truths come from the birds because stupidity is a social norm. There are real winged expressions in the fairy tale and the expression of "ugly duckling" has become a phraseological meaning of a hidden person, usually a child with unexpected talent.

Literary Elements

Genre: fairy tale

Setting: the story starts during summertime, but all seasons were included. As for a place the ugly duckling was born on a farm, but he visited a house surrounded by lakes and meadows, a swamp, and a lake.

Point of view and Narrator: third-person with an omniscient narration

Tone and Mood: in the beginning, the tone and mood were depressed and later changed to a happier mood.

Style: ironic, cynical

Protagonist and Antagonist: the protagonist is the little duckling while the antagonists are the other animals representing society.

Major Conflict: other animals don't like the little duckling as he's ugly

Raising action: the ugly duckling was threatened by an old woman he will be eaten if he doesn't lay an egg

Climax: the ugly duckling was saved from the winter by a farmer

Ending: the ugly duckling grows into a beautiful swan

Symbols and Metaphors

The ugly duckling - a metaphor for Andersen's life when he was rejected and mocked as a young boy. When a literary critic Georg Brandes asked Andersen if he was considering writing his autobiography, Andersen said it had already been written referring to The Ugly Duckling . It is a reflection of his childhood and growing up which he considered the darkest period of his life. Writing helped him express his originality and allowed him to be recognized as an author. He was an outcast himself turning into a beautiful swan after being recognized as a children's stories author.

Hatching - from birth, like the little duckling, we have to start from scratch. Deprived of all "conscious" memories of where we came from, what we are here to do, and the whole sense of creating and spreading we feel completely alone. And not only that, but in encounters with society at one (or more) point of life we perceive ourselves as ugly; there is something wrong with our presence, we do not fit.

We don't follow the crowd and we are not a copy of everyone else. Ironically, we all seem to be experiencing this.

Swan - despite hints of doubt about his true nature, as the duckling grows and becomes more and more exhausted in his misery. Hopelessness due to various avoided attempts to fit in and establish a relationship with society, the duckling falls into a pit of despair and comes to terms with being numb.

Suddenly, one day - when it seems that the last pain for life has finally left his body and when the last feather of fluffy gray down has fallen, the duckling hears a sound. Raising his head, he saw a beautiful creature like no other before; long neck, white feather, a personification of grace. Swimming closer, he not only sees the birds up close but catches a glimpse of his own reflection, which he has ignored for so long that he has forgotten he has it, to discover that he looks exactly the same as those before him.

As they begin to fly into the sky, the duckling - now a swan - spreads its wings and joins them, overwhelmed again with the realization that it has been beautiful all along, and he can be at peace with himself once and for all.

Animals - animals in this story represent a human society that rejects someone or something that doesn't fit in, follows the rules, or is ugly. This basic theme of loneliness in society until acceptance is old, and not surprising. Separated from his family and society, a man will not survive long if he doesn't find someone like him, same as the ugly duckling was already almost dead until he found out that he's a beautiful swan and that he fits somewhere. This is a parody of the society that can be read only between the lines and the story is a criticism of society.

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THE UGLY DUCKLING

adapted by Stephen Mitchell & illustrated by Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher ‧ RELEASE DATE: Jan. 1, 2008

An absolutely drop-dead gorgeous edition of the beloved Andersen tale. Mitchell hews very closely to the language and cadences of the original: What this means is a measured and rich text, excellent for reading aloud if not for very young children. Johnson and Fancher make mixed-media and collage images of powerful beauty. Every page is spectacular—even the narrative pages have spot illustrations (large in this format) and background textures in green (which the text tells us is “good for the eyes”). A rather distracted mother duck notes that one egg looks different from the others, and hatches later. That “duckling” is so ugly that his siblings and all the other farm animals persecute it violently, until it runs away to spend the winter first in a tumbledown cottage and then on its own. When spring finally arrives, he recognizes himself in the magnificent white swans like the one he has become. The artists do wonderful things with texture: Feathers, water and grasses are made of collage bits that range from lace to marbled paper to paint to cloth. The pictures have great depth, not only in terms of perspective but in how they draw the eye and heart to pore over every detail. Simply exquisite. (Picture book/fairy tale. 5-9)

Pub Date: Jan. 1, 2008

ISBN: 978-0-7636-2159-9

Page Count: 40

Publisher: Candlewick

Review Posted Online: June 24, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 2007

CHILDREN'S ANIMALS

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by The Brothers Grimm & adapted by Stephen Mitchell & illustrated by Matt Tavares

GENIES, MEANIES, AND MAGIC RINGS

adapted by Stephen Mitchell & illustrated by Tom Pohrt

THE TINDERBOX

by Hans Christian Andersen & adapted by Stephen Mitchell & illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline

DIARY OF A SPIDER

DIARY OF A SPIDER

by Doreen Cronin & illustrated by Harry Bliss ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 1, 2005

The wriggly narrator of Diary of a Worm (2003) puts in occasional appearances, but it’s his arachnid buddy who takes center stage here, with terse, tongue-in-cheek comments on his likes (his close friend Fly, Charlotte’s Web ), his dislikes (vacuums, people with big feet), nervous encounters with a huge Daddy Longlegs, his extended family—which includes a Grandpa more than willing to share hard-won wisdom (The secret to a long, happy life: “Never fall asleep in a shoe.”)—and mishaps both at spider school and on the human playground. Bliss endows his garden-dwellers with faces and the odd hat or other accessory, and creates cozy webs or burrows colorfully decorated with corks, scraps, plastic toys and other human detritus. Spider closes with the notion that we could all get along, “just like me and Fly,” if we but got to know one another. Once again, brilliantly hilarious. (Picture book. 6-8)

Pub Date: Aug. 1, 2005

ISBN: 0-06-000153-4

Publisher: Joanna Cotler/HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 1, 2005

More by Doreen Cronin

MAMA IN THE MOON

by Doreen Cronin ; illustrated by Brian Cronin

LAWRENCE & SOPHIA

by Doreen Cronin ; illustrated by Betsy Lewin

HENRY AND MUDGE AND THE STARRY NIGHT

HENRY AND MUDGE AND THE STARRY NIGHT

From the henry and mudge series.

by Cynthia Rylant & illustrated by Sucie Stevenson ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 1, 1998

Rylant (Henry and Mudge and the Sneaky Crackers, 1998, etc.) slips into a sentimental mode for this latest outing of the boy and his dog, as she sends Mudge and Henry and his parents off on a camping trip. Each character is attended to, each personality sketched in a few brief words: Henry's mother is the camping veteran with outdoor savvy; Henry's father doesn't know a tent stake from a marshmallow fork, but he's got a guitar for campfire entertainment; and the principals are their usual ready-for-fun selves. There are sappy moments, e.g., after an evening of star- gazing, Rylant sends the family off to bed with: ``Everyone slept safe and sound and there were no bears, no scares. Just the clean smell of trees . . . and wonderful green dreams.'' With its nice tempo, the story is as toasty as its campfire and swaddled in Stevenson's trusty artwork. (Fiction. 6-8)

Pub Date: April 1, 1998

ISBN: 0-689-81175-6

Page Count: 48

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1998

More In The Series

HENRY AND MUDGE AND ANNIE'S GOOD MOVE

by Cynthia Rylant & illustrated by Sucie Stevenson

HENRY AND MUDGE AND THE SNEAKY CRACKERS

More by Cynthia Rylant

HORNBEAM GETS IT DONE

by Cynthia Rylant ; illustrated by Arthur Howard

HORNBEAM ALL IN

by Cynthia Rylant ; illustrated by Lisa Congdon

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The Ugly Duckling

Author: Masumi Furukawa

Publisher: Child's Play

Mother duck has six eggs. Round yellow ducklings hatch from five, but from the final one emerges something dark, big and awkward. Shunned by the ducklings, this lonely oddity sets off to find the place he belongs – but in vain. Seeing a string of beautiful white high-flying birds, he sighs 'if only they were my family'. It's only when they swoop in, asking where he's been hiding all winter, that he realises he's an ugly duckling no more.

This retelling has the added novelty of flaps to lift on each spread which carry the story along. The softly-toned illustrations portray a recognisable natural world, combining quirky details and easily identifiable characters to create a homely feel to this familiar tale.

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Anna, 19 April 2024

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Fairytalez.com » Fairy Blog » Hans Christian Andersen » The Ugly Duckling

The Ugly Duckling

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It was so beautiful in the country. It was the summer time. The wheat fields were golden, the oats were green, and the hay stood in great stacks in the green meadows. The stork paraded about among them on his long red legs, chattering away in Egyptian, the language he had learned from his lady mother.

All around the meadows and cornfields grew thick woods, and in the midst of the forest was a deep lake. Yes, it was beautiful, it was delightful in the country.

In a sunny spot stood a pleasant old farmhouse circled all about with deep canals; and from the walls down to the water’s edge grew great burdocks, so high that under the tallest of them a little child might stand upright. The spot was as wild as if it had been in the very center of the thick wood.

In this snug retreat sat a duck upon her nest, watching for her young brood to hatch; but the pleasure she had felt at first was almost gone; she had begun to think it a wearisome task, for the little ones were so long coming out of their shells, and she seldom had visitors. The other ducks liked much better to swim about in the canals than to climb the slippery banks and sit under the burdock leaves to have a gossip with her. It was a long time to stay so much by herself.

At length, however, one shell cracked, and soon another, and from each came a living creature that lifted its head and cried “Peep, peep.”

“Quack, quack!” said the mother; and then they all tried to say it, too, as well as they could, while they looked all about them on every side at the tall green leaves. Their mother allowed them to look about as much as they liked, because green is good for the eyes.

“What a great world it is, to be sure,” said the little ones, when they found how much more room they had than when they were in the eggshell.

“Is this all the world, do you imagine?” said the mother. “Wait till you have seen the garden. Far beyond that it stretches down to the pastor’s field, though I have never ventured to such a distance. Are you all out?” she continued, rising to look. “No, not all; the largest egg lies there yet, I declare. I wonder how long this business is to last. I’m really beginning to be tired of it;” but for all that she sat down again.

“Well, and how are you to-day?” quacked an old duck who came to pay her a visit.

“There’s one egg that takes a deal of hatching. The shell is hard and will not break,” said the fond mother, who sat still upon her nest. “But just look at the others. Have I not a pretty family? Are they not the prettiest little ducklings you ever saw? They are the image of their father—the good for naught! He never comes to see me.”

“Let me see the egg that will not break,” said the old duck. “I’ve no doubt it’s a Guinea fowl’s egg. The same thing happened to me once, and a deal of trouble it gave me, for the young ones are afraid of the water. I quacked and clucked, but all to no purpose. Let me take a look at it. Yes, I am right; it’s a Guinea fowl, upon my word; so take my advice and leave it where it is. Come to the water and teach the other children to swim.”

“I think I will sit a little while longer,” said the mother. “I have sat so long, a day or two more won’t matter.”

“Very well, please yourself,” said the old duck, rising; and she went away.

At last the great egg broke, and the latest bird cried “Peep, peep,” as he crept forth from the shell. How big and ugly he was! The mother duck stared at him and did not know what to think. “Really,” she said, “this is an enormous duckling, and it is not at all like any of the others. I wonder if he will turn out to be a Guinea fowl. Well, we shall see when we get to the water—for into the water he must go, even if I have to push him in myself.”

On the next day the weather was delightful. The sun shone brightly on the green burdock leaves, and the mother duck took her whole family down to the water and jumped in with a splash. “Quack, quack!” cried she, and one after another the little ducklings jumped in. The water closed over their heads, but they came up again in an instant and swam about quite prettily, with their legs paddling under them as easily as possible; their legs went of their own accord; and the ugly gray-coat was also in the water, swimming with them.

“Oh,” said the mother, “that is not a Guinea fowl. See how well he uses his legs, and how erect he holds himself! He is my own child, and he is not so very ugly after all, if you look at him properly. Quack, quack! come with me now. I will take you into grand society and introduce you to the farmyard, but you must keep close to me or you may be trodden upon; and, above all, beware of the cat.”

When they reached the farmyard, there was a wretched riot going on; two families were fighting for an eel’s head, which, after all, was carried off by the cat. “See, children, that is the way of the world,” said the mother duck, whetting her beak, for she would have liked the eel’s head herself. “Come, now, use your legs, and let me see how well you can behave. You must bow your heads prettily to that old duck yonder; she is the highest born of them all and has Spanish blood; therefore she is well off.

Don’t you see she has a red rag tied to her leg, which is something very grand and a great honor for a duck; it shows that every one is anxious not to lose her, and that she is to be noticed by both man and beast. Come, now, don’t turn in your toes; a well-bred duckling spreads his feet wide apart, just like his father and mother, in this way; now bend your necks and say ‘Quack!'”

The ducklings did as they were bade, but the other ducks stared, and said, “Look, here comes another brood—as if there were not enough of us already! And bless me, what a queer-looking object one of them is; we don’t want him here”; and then one flew out and bit him in the neck.

“Let him alone,” said the mother; “he is not doing any harm.”

“Yes, but he is so big and ugly. He’s a perfect fright,” said the spiteful duck, “and therefore he must be turned out. A little biting will do him good.”

“The others are very pretty children,” said the old duck with the rag on her leg, “all but that one. I wish his mother could smooth him up a bit; he is really ill-favored.”

“That is impossible, your grace,” replied the mother. “He is not pretty, but he has a very good disposition and swims as well as the others or even better. I think he will grow up pretty, and perhaps be smaller. He has remained too long in the egg, and therefore his figure is not properly formed;” and then she stroked his neck and smoothed the feathers, saying: “It is a drake, and therefore not of so much consequence. I think he will grow up strong and able to take care of himself.”

“The other ducklings are graceful enough,” said the old duck. “Now make yourself at home, and if you find an eel’s head you can bring it to me.”

And so they made themselves comfortable; but the poor duckling who had crept out of his shell last of all and looked so ugly was bitten and pushed and made fun of, not only by the ducks but by all the poultry.

"He became quite red in the head with passion, so that the poor little thing did not know where to go, and was quite miserable because he was so ugly as to be laughed at by the whole farmyard." Illustration by Milo Winter. Published in Hans Andersen's Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen (1916), Rand McNally and Company.

“He became quite red in the head with passion, so that the poor little thing did not know where to go, and was quite miserable because he was so ugly as to be laughed at by the whole farmyard.” Illustration by Milo Winter. Published in Hans Andersen’s Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen (1916), Rand McNally and Company.

“He is too big,” they all said; and the turkey cock, who had been born into the world with spurs and fancied himself really an emperor, puffed himself out like a vessel in full sail and flew at the duckling. He became quite red in the head with passion, so that the poor little thing did not know where to go, and was quite miserable because he was so ugly as to be laughed at by the whole farmyard.

So it went on from day to day; it got worse and worse. The poor duckling was driven about by every one; even his brothers and sisters were unkind to him and would say, “Ah, you ugly creature, I wish the cat would get you” and his mother had been heard to say she wished he had never been born. The ducks pecked him, the chickens beat him, and the girl who fed the poultry pushed him with her feet. So at last he ran away, frightening the little birds in the hedge as he flew over the palings. “They are afraid because I am so ugly,” he said. So he flew still farther, until he came out on a large moor inhabited by wild ducks. Here he remained the whole night, feeling very sorrowful.

In the morning, when the wild ducks rose in the air, they stared at their new comrade. “What sort of a duck are you?” they all said, coming round him.

He bowed to them and was as polite as he could be, but he did not reply to their question. “You are exceedingly ugly,” said the wild ducks; “but that will not matter if you do not want to marry one of our family.”

Poor thing! he had no thoughts of marriage; all he wanted was permission to lie among the rushes and drink some of the water on the moor. After he had been on the moor two days, there came two wild geese, or rather goslings, for they had not been out of the egg long, which accounts for their impertinence. “Listen, friend,” said one of them to the duckling; “you are so ugly that we like you very well. Will you go with us and become a bird of passage? Not far from here is another moor, in which there are some wild geese, all of them unmarried. It is a chance for you to get a wife. You may make your fortune, ugly as you are.”

“Bang, bang,” sounded in the air, and the two wild geese fell dead among the rushes, and the water was tinged with blood. “Bang, bang,” echoed far and wide in the distance, and whole flocks of wild geese rose up from the rushes.

The sound continued from every direction, for the sportsmen surrounded the moor, and some were even seated on branches of trees, overlooking the rushes. The blue smoke from the guns rose like clouds over the dark trees, and as it floated away across the water, a number of sporting dogs bounded in among the rushes, which bent beneath them wherever they went.

How they terrified the poor duckling! He turned away his head to hide it under his wing, and at the same moment a large, terrible dog passed quite near him. His jaws were open, his tongue hung from his mouth, and his eyes glared fearfully. He thrust his nose close to the duckling, showing his sharp teeth, and then “splash, splash,” he went into the water, without touching him.

“Oh,” sighed the duckling, “how thankful I am for being so ugly; even a dog will not bite me.”

And so he lay quite still, while the shot rattled through the rushes, and gun after gun was fired over him. It was late in the day before all became quiet, but even then the poor young thing did not dare to move. He waited quietly for several hours and then, after looking carefully around him, hastened away from the moor as fast as he could. He ran over field and meadow till a storm arose, and he could hardly struggle against it.

Towards evening he reached a poor little cottage that seemed ready to fall, and only seemed to remain standing because it could not decide on which side to fall first. The storm continued so violent that the duckling could go no farther. He sat down by the cottage, and then he noticed that the door was not quite closed, in consequence of one of the hinges having given way. There was, therefore, a narrow opening near the bottom large enough for him to slip through, which he did very quietly, and got a shelter for the night. Here, in this cottage, lived a woman, a cat, and a hen.

"Here, in this cottage, lived a woman, a cat, and a hen." Illustration by Eleanor Vere Boyle. Published in Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen (1872), Sampson, Low, Marsten, Low and Searle.

“Here, in this cottage, lived a woman, a cat, and a hen.” Illustration by Eleanor Vere Boyle. Published in Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen (1872), Sampson, Low, Marsten, Low and Searle.

The cat, whom his mistress called “My little son,” was a great favorite; he could raise his back, and purr, and could even throw out sparks from his fur if it were stroked the wrong way. The hen had very short legs, so she was called “Chickie Short-legs.” She laid good eggs, and her mistress loved her as if she had been her own child. In the morning the strange visitor was discovered; the cat began to purr and the hen to cluck.

“What is that noise about?” said the old woman, looking around the room. But her sight was not very good; therefore when she saw the duckling she thought it must be a fat duck that had strayed from home. “Oh, what a prize!” she exclaimed. “I hope it is not a drake, for then I shall have some ducks’ eggs. I must wait and see.”

So the duckling was allowed to remain on trial for three weeks; but there were no eggs.

Now the cat was the master of the house, and the hen was the mistress; and they always said, “We and the world,” for they believed themselves to be half the world, and by far the better half, too. The duckling thought that others might hold a different opinion on the subject, but the hen would not listen to such doubts.

“Can you lay eggs?” she asked. “No.” “Then have the goodness to cease talking.” “Can you raise your back, or purr, or throw out sparks?” said the cat. “No.” “Then you have no right to express an opinion when sensible people are speaking.” So the duckling sat in a corner, feeling very low-spirited; but when the sunshine and the fresh air came into the room through the open door, he began to feel such a great longing for a swim that he could not help speaking of it.

“What an absurd idea!” said the hen. “You have nothing else to do; therefore you have foolish fancies. If you could purr or lay eggs, they would pass away.”

“But it is so delightful to swim about on the water,” said the duckling, “and so refreshing to feel it close over your head while you dive down to the bottom.”

“Delightful, indeed! it must be a queer sort of pleasure,” said the hen. “Why, you must be crazy! Ask the cat—he is the cleverest animal I know; ask him how he would like to swim about on the water, or to dive under it, for I will not speak of my own opinion. Ask our mistress, the old woman; there is no one in the world more clever than she is. Do you think she would relish swimming and letting the water close over her head?”

“I see you don’t understand me,” said the duckling.

“We don’t understand you? Who can understand you, I wonder? Do you consider yourself more clever than the cat or the old woman?—I will say nothing of myself. Don’t imagine such nonsense, child, and thank your good fortune that you have been so well received here. Are you not in a warm room and in society from which you may learn something? But you are a chatterer, and your company is not very agreeable. Believe me, I speak only for your good. I may tell you unpleasant truths, but that is a proof of my friendship. I advise you, therefore, to lay eggs and learn to purr as quickly as possible.”

“I believe I must go out into the world again,” said the duckling.

“Yes, do,” said the hen. So the duckling left the cottage and soon found water on which it could swim and dive, but he was avoided by all other animals because of his ugly appearance.

Autumn came, and the leaves in the forest turned to orange and gold; then, as winter approached, the wind caught them as they fell and whirled them into the cold air. The clouds, heavy with hail and snowflakes, hung low in the sky, and the raven stood among the reeds, crying, “Croak, croak.” It made one shiver with cold to look at him. All this was very sad for the poor little duckling.

One evening, just as the sun was setting amid radiant clouds, there came a large flock of beautiful birds out of the bushes. The duckling had never seen any like them before. They were swans; and they curved their graceful necks, while their soft plumage shone with dazzling whiteness. They uttered a singular cry as they spread their glorious wings and flew away from those cold regions to warmer countries across the sea.

They mounted higher and higher in the air, and the ugly little duckling had a strange sensation as he watched them. He whirled himself in the water like a wheel, stretched out his neck towards them, and uttered a cry so strange that it frightened even himself. Could he ever forget those beautiful, happy birds! And when at last they were out of his sight, he dived under the water and rose again almost beside himself with excitement. He knew not the names of these birds nor where they had flown, but he felt towards them as he had never felt towards any other bird in the world.

He was not envious of these beautiful creatures; it never occurred to him to wish to be as lovely as they. Poor ugly creature, how gladly he would have lived even with the ducks, had they only treated him kindly and given him encouragement.

The winter grew colder and colder; he was obliged to swim about on the water to keep it from freezing, but every night the space on which he swam became smaller and smaller. At length it froze so hard that the ice in the water crackled as he moved, and the duckling had to paddle with his legs as well as he could, to keep the space from closing up. He became exhausted at last and lay still and helpless, frozen fast in the ice.

Early in the morning a peasant who was passing by saw what had happened. He broke the ice in pieces with his wooden shoe and carried the duckling home to his wife. The warmth revived the poor little creature; but when the children wanted to play with him, the duckling thought they would do him some harm, so he started up in terror, fluttered into the milk pan, and splashed the milk about the room. Then the woman clapped her hands, which frightened him still more. He flew first into the butter cask, then into the meal tub and out again. What a condition he was in! The woman screamed and struck at him with the tongs; the children laughed and screamed and tumbled over each other in their efforts to catch him, but luckily he escaped. The door stood open; the poor creature could just manage to slip out among the bushes and lie down quite exhausted in the newly fallen snow.

It would be very sad were I to relate all the misery and privations which the poor little duckling endured during the hard winter; but when it had passed he found himself lying one morning in a moor, amongst the rushes. He felt the warm sun shining and heard the lark singing and saw that all around was beautiful spring.

Then the young bird felt that his wings were strong, as he flapped them against his sides and rose high into the air. They bore him onwards until, before he well knew how it had happened, he found himself in a large garden. The apple trees were in full blossom, and the fragrant elders bent their long green branches down to the stream, which wound round a smooth lawn. Everything looked beautiful in the freshness of early spring. From a thicket close by came three beautiful white swans, rustling their feathers and swimming lightly over the smooth water. The duckling saw these lovely birds and felt more strangely unhappy than ever.

“I will fly to these royal birds,” he exclaimed, “and they will kill me because, ugly as I am, I dare to approach them. But it does not matter; better be killed by them than pecked by the ducks, beaten by the hens, pushed about by the maiden who feeds the poultry, or starved with hunger in the winter.”

Then he flew to the water and swam towards the beautiful swans. The moment they espied the stranger they rushed to meet him with outstretched wings.

“Kill me,” said the poor bird and he bent his head down to the surface of the water and awaited death.

But what did he see in the clear stream below? His own image—no longer a dark-gray bird, ugly and disagreeable to look at, but a graceful and beautiful swan.

To be born in a duck’s nest in a farmyard is of no consequence to a bird if it is hatched from a swan’s egg. He now felt glad at having suffered sorrow and trouble, because it enabled him to enjoy so much better all the pleasure and happiness around him; for the great swans swam round the newcomer and stroked his neck with their beaks, as a welcome.

Into the garden presently came some little children and threw bread and cake into the water.

“See,” cried the youngest, “there is a new one;” and the rest were delighted, and ran to their father and mother, dancing and clapping their hands and shouting joyously, “There is another swan come; a new one has arrived.”

Then they threw more bread and cake into the water and said, “The new one is the most beautiful of all, he is so young and pretty.” And the old swans bowed their heads before him.

Then he felt quite ashamed and hid his head under his wing, for he did not know what to do, he was so happy—yet he was not at all proud. He had been persecuted and despised for his ugliness, and now he heard them say he was the most beautiful of all the birds. Even the elder tree bent down its boughs into the water before him, and the sun shone warm and bright. Then he rustled his feathers, curved his slender neck, and cried joyfully, from the depths of his heart, “I never dreamed of such happiness as this while I was the despised ugly duckling.”

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The Ugly Duckling

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Margaret Wise Brown

The Ugly Duckling Paperback – June 4, 2017

  • Print length 60 pages
  • Language English
  • Publication date June 4, 2017
  • Dimensions 8.5 x 0.13 x 11.02 inches
  • ISBN-10 1547179007
  • ISBN-13 978-1547179008
  • See all details

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (June 4, 2017)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 60 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1547179007
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1547179008
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 5.9 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.5 x 0.13 x 11.02 inches

About the authors

Margaret wise brown.

Margaret Wise Brown wrote hundreds of books and stories during her life, but she is best known for Goodnight Moon and Runaway Bunny. Even though she died over 45 years ago, her books still sell very well. Margaret loved animals. Most of her books have animals as characters in the story. She liked to write books that had a rhythm to them. Sometimes she would put a hard word into the story or poem. She thought this made children think harder when they are reading. She wrote all the time. There are many scraps of paper where she quickly wrote down a story idea or a poem. She said she dreamed stories and then had to write them down in the morning before she forgot them. She tried to write the way children wanted to hear a story, which often isn't the same way an adult would tell a story. She also taught illustrators to draw the way a child saw things. One time she gave two puppies to someone who was going to draw a book with that kind of dog. The illustrator painted many pictures one day and then fell asleep. When he woke up, the papers he painted on were bare. The puppies had licked all the paint off the paper. Margaret died after surgery for a bursting appendix while in France. She had many friends who still miss her. They say she was a creative genius who made a room come to life with her excitement. Margaret saw herself as something else - a writer of songs and nonsense.

Monique Peterson

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book report about ugly duckling

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  1. Ugly Duckling

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  2. My Very First Story Time: The Ugly Duckling

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  3. Ugly Duckling Book Review Writing Frame

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  4. Top 10 Great the ugly duckling book and record

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  5. The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen

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  6. The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen: Good (1999) 1ST.

    book report about ugly duckling

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COMMENTS

  1. A Summary and Analysis of Hans Christian Andersen's 'The Ugly Duckling

    The ugly duckling keeps wandering, until he arrives at the home of an old woman. Here, once again, he isn't there long before he is taunted and abused by the woman's cat and hen: the hen dismisses the ugly duckling's longing to glide upon the water, saying that she (the hen) is cleverer than him and it's a stupid idea.

  2. The Ugly Duckling Summary

    The Ugly Duckling book report - summary, character analysis, Hans Christian Andersen biography. Story about the troubles and sufferings of a swan.

  3. The Ugly Duckling

    "The Ugly Duckling" (Danish: Den grimme ælling) is a Danish literary fairy tale by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875). It was first published on 11 November 1843 in New Fairy Tales.

  4. The Ugly Duckling

    The Ugly Duckling. by Hans Christian Anderson. We've probably all heard the story of the ugly misfit duckling. who has trouble finding out where he belongs. The little bird. endures teasing and taunting until the day he finally grows into. his true identity: a beautiful swan. Jerry Pinkney's graceful. watercolor paintings bring a sunny ...

  5. The Ugly Duckling

    Explore ''The Ugly Duckling'' story by Hans Christian Andersen. Learn about the author, study a summary and analysis of his fairy tale, and...

  6. The Ugly Duckling

    The Ugly Duckling is one of our Favorite Fairy Tales. IT was lovely summer weather in the country, and the golden corn, the green oats, and the haystacks piled up in the meadows looked beautiful. The stork walking about on his long red legs chattered in the Egyptian language, which he had learnt from his mother.

  7. The Ugly Duckling Summary

    The Ugly Duckling Summary. Summary Hans Christian Andersen. The Ugly Duckling is a fairy tale written by Hans Christian Andersen. This is one of the world's best-known fairy tales about the ugly duckling who, after many sufferings and troubles due to his ugliness, discovers that he's a beautiful swan. Further study.

  8. The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen

    For over one hundred years The Ugly Duckling has been a childhood favorite, and Jerry Pinkney's spectacular new adaptation brings it triumphantly to new generations of readers. With keen emotion and fresh vision, the acclaimed artist captures the essence of the tale's timeless appeal: The journey of the awkward little bird -- marching bravely ...

  9. "The Ugly Duckling" by Hans Christian Andersen: A Critical Analysis

    The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen, was first published in 1843 as part of the collection New Fairy Tales. First Volume. First Collection. This poignant story follows the journey of a duckling who is rejected by his family and peers due to his appearance, but ultimately finds acceptance and belonging. The tale begins with a mother duck who is proud of her brood, except for one ...

  10. "The Ugly Duckling", analysis of the tale by Hans ...

    The tale "The Ugly Duckling" was written in 1843 by Andersen and published in the collection New Tales. Literary scholars believe that the tale is autobiographical. The ugly duckling is young Andersen, who had an extravagant appearance: he was thin and clumsy, so that many aroused pity and a desire to help. Three trials of the ugly duckling ...

  11. The Ugly Duckling Summary

    Conclusion. "The Ugly Duckling" by Iris Johansen is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that explores the depths of human darkness and the power of love and determination. With its intriguing plot, well-crafted characters, and fast-paced narrative, this book is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Johansen's ability to keep readers on ...

  12. 1-Minute Summary of The Ugly Duckling

    The "ugly" duckling is acutely aware of its differences and often finds itself the subject of scorn and laughter. The mother duck, while protective, is also secretly embarrassed by her odd offspring. Seeking respite from the constant mockery, the duckling decides to run away. It wanders through treacherous terrains, facing various adversities.

  13. The Ugly Duckling Analysis

    The Ugly Duckling is one of the most famous and well-known Danish stories. This is a closer analysis of the fairy tale which describes how the ugly little duckling that was mocked and rejected by society turned into a beautiful swan. Analysis Literary Elements Symbols and Metaphors Further study The Ugly Duckling Book The Ugly Duckling Characters

  14. "The Ugly Duckling"

    "The other ducklings are graceful enough," said the old Duck. "Make yourself at home; and if you find an eel's head, you may bring it me." And now they were at home. But the poor Duckling which had crept last out of the egg, and looked so ugly, was bitten and pushed and jeered, as much by the ducks as by the chickens.

  15. THE UGLY DUCKLING

    An absolutely drop-dead gorgeous edition of the beloved Andersen tale. Mitchell hews very closely to the language and cadences of the original: What this means is a measured and rich text, excellent for reading aloud if not for very young children. Johnson and Fancher make mixed-media and collage images of powerful beauty. Every page is spectacular—even the narrative pages have spot ...

  16. The Ugly Duckling

    The Ugly Duckling. Hans Christian Andersen. Ciletti Publishing Group, Incorporated, 2010 - Juvenile Fiction - 32 pages. One summer, a mother duck sat on her nest, waiting for her eggs to hatch. One by one, the shells broke apart, announcing a new little bird to the world. But one solitary egg, larger than the others, remained nestled and quiet ...

  17. The Ugly Duckling

    The Ugly Duckling. Hans Christian Andersen. ABDO, 2005 - Juvenile Fiction - 42 pages. A mother duck hatches a brood of ducklings. All are sweet little yellow babies - - all but one, who is very large, very gray, and very ugly. The poor ugly duckling is teased and tormented by everyone he meets, even his own mother, brothers, and sisters.

  18. The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen: 9789888341191

    About The Ugly Duckling. Born different, the ugly duckling is mocked by his siblings, rejected by other ducks, and even shunned by his own mother. The sad little bird leaves home, starting a journey where he is jeered at and hunted as he struggles to survive on his own-only to discover that the identity he longed for was within him all along.

  19. The Ugly Duckling

    The Ugly Duckling. Mother duck has six eggs. Round yellow ducklings hatch from five, but from the final one emerges something dark, big and awkward. Shunned by the ducklings, this lonely oddity sets off to find the place he belongs - but in vain. Seeing a string of beautiful white high-flying birds, he sighs 'if only they were my family'.

  20. The Ugly Duckling

    The Ugly Duckling. It was so beautiful in the country. It was the summer time. The wheat fields were golden, the oats were green, and the hay stood in great stacks in the green meadows. The stork paraded about among them on his long red legs, chattering away in Egyptian, the language he had learned from his lady mother.

  21. The Ugly Duckling: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner

    The Ugly Duckling: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner Library Binding - Picture Book, March 24, 1999 by Hans Christian Andersen (Adapter), Jerry Pinkney (Author) 4.0 13,119 ratings Part of: Caldecott Honor Book (3 books) See all formats and editions

  22. The Ugly Duckling: Andersen, Hans: 9781547179008: Amazon.com: Books

    The Ugly Duckling. Paperback - June 4, 2017. The Ugly Duckling" (Danish: Den grimme ælling) is a literary fairy tale by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875). The story tells of a homely little bird born in a barnyard who suffers abuse from the others around him until, much to his delight (and to the surprise of others ...