The Poor Boy in the Grave
This Grimm fairy tale tells the tragic story of a poor orphan boy mistreated by the wealthy farmer who takes him in. Beaten and starved for minor accidents and mistakes, the boy eventually despairs and attempts to poison himself after accidentally destroying his master's property—only to consume honey and wine he mistakenly believes are deadly toxins. The tale explores themes of justice, cruelty, and the supernatural retribution that befalls the heartless employer. Readers should expect a morality tale with the darker elements characteristic of the Grimms' original collections, culminating in an ironic and sobering conclusion.