Reading Diary B: Hans Christian Andersen

The second half of this unit revolves solely around the story of the Little Mermaid, but like you mentioned in your comments in the beginning, it's definitely not the popular Disney story. I had no idea that the original story was so dark and gruesome compared to the lighthearted animated movie that everyone loves. Although the theme of the Andersen unit was deeper and resulted in a not so happy ending, I still enjoyed reading and experiencing the original. All of the language and details that Andersen uses is phenomenal! His writing is absolutely beautiful.

(Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen)

All parts of the Little Mermaid were really entertaining to read, and I really enjoyed it. Amongst each of the episodes, my favorites were part 4, part 5, and part 6. I felt like in part 4 is where the story really picked up, and also where I noticed the most difference between the Disney story and Andersen's original version. The Sea Witch's compromise was definitely more gruesome than Ursula's "Poor Unfortunate Souls" bit; I couldn't believe that not only did she take her voice, she literally cut her tongue off. Talk about rude. I also didn't realize that part of the agreement that the Sea Witch made with the little mermaid involved never being able to return to the sea, and no matter how she stepped, her gait would cause her excruciating pain. Even with these stipulations, Andersen's version really shows the lengths people with go to in order to be with the person they love. Another major point in the story that stood out was the obvious different ending. In the Disney version, Ariel and Prince Eric eventually fall in love (after the spell with Ursula), and they live 'happily ever after'. However, the little mermaid's twisted happy ending she receives much be perceived differently. At first glance, it seems like the ending is not in her favor. However, even though she kills herself (instead of killing her prince), she is able to live on with an immortal soul, unlike the fate of most mermaids.