Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen By: Alexander Chodzko (1804-1891)
Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen by Alexander Chodzko is a captivating collection of traditional folk tales that not only transport readers to a rich world of magic and enchantment but also shed light on the rich cultural heritage of Slavic communities. With each page turning, readers are immersed in a realm where mythological creatures, courageous heroes, and beautiful heroines come to life. One of the commendable aspects of this book is Chodzko's faithful rendering of these Slavic fairy tales. Though slightly unfamiliar to audiences raised on Western European stories, the author ensures that the essence of these tales remains intact. The narratives are filled with symbolism and magic, offering readers a glimpse into the beliefs, traditions, and folklore that have shaped the cultural fabric of Slav peasants and herdsmen. Chodzko's translation successfully maintains the lyrical quality of these stories, capturing the oral tradition and preserving their authenticity. The wide range of tales included in this collection is another strength. From stories of love and adventure to those centered on themes of morality and justice, Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen presents a variety of narratives that will appeal to readers of all ages. Each story stands on its own, yet they are subtly interconnected, allowing readers to explore the familiar motifs that echo throughout Slavic folklore. Moreover, the book exhibits a vivid cast of characters that are both relatable and extraordinary. Heroic princes, cunning witches, and loyal animals populate these stories, and their journeys guide readers through themes of bravery, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness. Chodzko skillfully weaves together these character-driven narratives, offering readers a chance to delve into the hopes, fears, and dreams of the Slavic people. However, the book's structure could have been more cohesive. The division of the tales into different sections, while intended to provide a clear organization, sometimes feels arbitrary. The absence of an introduction or analysis of the cultural context in which these tales originated also leaves readers wanting for a deeper understanding of their significance. Nonetheless, the sheer beauty and originality of these enchanting stories compensate for these minor flaws. Overall, Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen is a remarkable book that invites readers to immerse themselves in the realm of Slavic folklore. With its engaging narrative style, colorful characters, and powerful themes, this collection is sure to captivate both children and adults alike. Alexander Chodzko's translation offers a valuable glimpse into the world of Slav peasants and herdsmen, preserving their cultural heritage for generations to come. First Page: SLAV TALES [Illustration] [Illustration: From "The Plentiful Tablecloth," p. 351. ] Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen From the French of Alex. Chodsko Translated and Illustrated by Emily J. Harding London: George Allen 156 Charing Cross Road 1896 Printed by Ballantyne, Hanson & Co. At the Ballantyne Press NOTE BY THE PUBLISHER Very few of the twenty fairy tales included in this volume have been presented before in an English dress; this will doubtless enhance their value in the eyes of the young folk, for whom, principally, they are intended. It is hoped that older readers will find some additional interest in tracing throughout the many evidences of kinship between these stories and those of more pronounced Eastern origin. The translation has been carefully revised by a well known writer, who has interfered as little as possible with the original text, except in those instances where slight alterations were necessary. The illustrations speak for themselves, and are what might have been expected from the artist who designed those for the "Lullabies of Many Lands," issued last Christmas. November 1895. CONTENTS THE ABODE OF THE GODS I. THE TWO BROTHERS II. TIME AND THE KINGS OF THE ELEMENTS III. THE TWELVE MONTHS THE SUN; OR, THE THREE GOLDEN HAIRS OF THE OLD MAN VSÉVÈDE KOVLAD I... Continue reading book >>

Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen By: Alexander Chodzko (1804-1891)

Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen by Alexander Chodzko is a captivating collection of traditional folk tales that not only transport readers to a rich world of magic and enchantment but also shed light on the rich cultural heritage of Slavic communities. With each page turning, readers are immersed in a realm where mythological creatures, courageous heroes, and beautiful heroines come to life.

One of the commendable aspects of this book is Chodzko's faithful rendering of these Slavic fairy tales. Though slightly unfamiliar to audiences raised on Western European stories, the author ensures that the essence of these tales remains intact. The narratives are filled with symbolism and magic, offering readers a glimpse into the beliefs, traditions, and folklore that have shaped the cultural fabric of Slav peasants and herdsmen. Chodzko's translation successfully maintains the lyrical quality of these stories, capturing the oral tradition and preserving their authenticity.

The wide range of tales included in this collection is another strength. From stories of love and adventure to those centered on themes of morality and justice, Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen presents a variety of narratives that will appeal to readers of all ages. Each story stands on its own, yet they are subtly interconnected, allowing readers to explore the familiar motifs that echo throughout Slavic folklore.

Moreover, the book exhibits a vivid cast of characters that are both relatable and extraordinary. Heroic princes, cunning witches, and loyal animals populate these stories, and their journeys guide readers through themes of bravery, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness. Chodzko skillfully weaves together these character-driven narratives, offering readers a chance to delve into the hopes, fears, and dreams of the Slavic people.

However, the book's structure could have been more cohesive. The division of the tales into different sections, while intended to provide a clear organization, sometimes feels arbitrary. The absence of an introduction or analysis of the cultural context in which these tales originated also leaves readers wanting for a deeper understanding of their significance. Nonetheless, the sheer beauty and originality of these enchanting stories compensate for these minor flaws.

Overall, Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen is a remarkable book that invites readers to immerse themselves in the realm of Slavic folklore. With its engaging narrative style, colorful characters, and powerful themes, this collection is sure to captivate both children and adults alike. Alexander Chodzko's translation offers a valuable glimpse into the world of Slav peasants and herdsmen, preserving their cultural heritage for generations to come.

First Page:

SLAV TALES

[Illustration]

[Illustration: From "The Plentiful Tablecloth," p. 351. ]

Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen

From the French of Alex. Chodsko

Translated and Illustrated by Emily J. Harding

London: George Allen 156 Charing Cross Road

1896

Printed by Ballantyne, Hanson & Co. At the Ballantyne Press

NOTE BY THE PUBLISHER

Very few of the twenty fairy tales included in this volume have been presented before in an English dress; this will doubtless enhance their value in the eyes of the young folk, for whom, principally, they are intended. It is hoped that older readers will find some additional interest in tracing throughout the many evidences of kinship between these stories and those of more pronounced Eastern origin.

The translation has been carefully revised by a well known writer, who has interfered as little as possible with the original text, except in those instances where slight alterations were necessary.

The illustrations speak for themselves, and are what might have been expected from the artist who designed those for the "Lullabies of Many Lands," issued last Christmas.

November 1895.

CONTENTS

THE ABODE OF THE GODS I. THE TWO BROTHERS II. TIME AND THE KINGS OF THE ELEMENTS III. THE TWELVE MONTHS

THE SUN; OR, THE THREE GOLDEN HAIRS OF THE OLD MAN VSÉVÈDE

KOVLAD I... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fairy tales
Fiction

eBook links
Wikipedia – Alexander Chodzko
Wikipedia – Fairy Tales of the Slav Peasants and Herdsmen

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