Generations of children in China have been enchanted by Hans Christian Andersen's Danish masterpiece, "The Little Mermaid." Unlike typical fairy tales, its bittersweet ending speaks to the courage needed to follow one's heart and the cost of self-sacrifice.
Translated into Chinese in the early 1900s, the story has since surfaced in countless formats—storybooks, stage plays and animated series—capturing the imaginations of young readers, artists and educators alike.
At its core, "The Little Mermaid" revolves around a mermaid who sacrifices her voice and underwater home to pursue life on land and the love of a human prince. Though her romance doesn’t end as she hopes, her kindness transforms her into a spirit of the air, underscoring themes of resilience and compassion.
The tale’s simple yet profound language allows readers from different backgrounds to connect with universal emotions—longing, bravery and the bittersweet nature of dreams. For many in China, Andersen’s narrative has become a gateway to exploring global storytelling traditions.
More than a century after its first translation, "The Little Mermaid" continues to inspire new generations, proving that stories of love and sacrifice can unite readers across cultures and time.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
