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The Horror Library

Royal

1 story

The Donkey

Jacob Grimm, Wilhelm Grimm·1912·6 min read

This classic Grimm fairy tale tells of a royal child born as a donkey, who through perseverance and noble character wins the heart of a princess and ultimately transforms into a handsome youth. First collected in the early 19th century, the story exemplifies the Brothers Grimm's interest in transformation narratives and moral redemption. Readers should expect a whimsical yet somewhat dark tale about overcoming prejudice and the power of inner nobility to transcend external form.