Magia ognia w Małej księżniczce Frances E. Burnett. (O dziejach edycji, recepcji i o horyzoncie interpretacji)

Abstract

This article presents the history of the Polish edition of Frances E. Burnett’s novel Little Princess and sketches out the most significant determinants of its reception by young readers. The author follows the history of the publication of the book since its first edition, through the period of Stalinism till present day editions (including on-line editions). This study reveals that presence of a novel on the market, and even its inclusion on the compulsory reading list do not secure wide circulation among readers. This observation is also supported by the fact that researchers on children’s literature very rarely refer to this particular books. Furthermore, the author also poses this question: Which literary layers contain universal values, which could capture imagination of a young reader? Thus, in the second part of the article, the author suggests a possibility of an archetypal interpretation through the interpretation of the theme o f fire. Concluding, the author states that Little Princess is not only a didactic novel, but also a beautiful fable with a unique atmosphere, great charm and animated plot. It teaches the “sensitiveness to values”, when it refers to the emotions o f readers, when it arouses compassion, admiration and respect for a peer heroine. It can be also used to shape creative thinking and reflection on the surrounding reality.