O "Małej syrence" Hansa Christiana Andersena

Abstract

In the paper I discuss the tale written by Hans Christian Andersen in 1837. I point to the space — the underwater world, the gardens and palace interiors, the witch’s grotesque and macabre residence, the world above the water and on the land. I indicate their colour, sensuality and theatricalness of the descriptions as well as the word “transparent frequently used”. I tell the story of the title female character after Andersen, underlining crucial moments, acting motives, choices and the hierarchy of values. In the final part of the paper I give the possible meanings that Andersen could have suggested in the scenes of the tale, willing to present his fascination with the world, his devotion to and outlook on the human being and their situation in life. I interpret the presence of the elements as well as the upward movement and their relation to the mermaid’s adolescence.