The Ugly Duckling

Book • 1851

The story follows a duckling who is ostracized by his family and the other animals in the farmyard because of his ugly appearance.

He endures various hardships, including living with wild ducks, geese, and an old woman, before finally discovering his true identity as a swan.

The tale explores themes of self-acceptance, inner beauty, and the journey to finding one's place in the world.

Mentioned by

Mentioned in 1 episodes

Mentioned by

Jameson Olsen

as the author of fairy tales such as The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, and The Tin Soldier.

The Emperor's New Clothes \\ Critical Failure By Groupthink

Mentioned by

Michael Rosen

as one of Andersen's works that explores the hardship of childhood.

Hans Christian Andersen

Mentioned by

Julia Eccleshare

as a story she remembers from a picture book version.

Proms Extra: Hans Christian Andersen 20 August 15

Mentioned by

Shankar Vedantam

in the introduction of the podcast episode.

The Ugly Side of Beauty

Mentioned by Tanya Talaga in the context of discussing Murray Sinclair's childhood and his identification with the themes of belonging and self-discovery.

Murray Sinclair, as remembered by his friend Tanya Talaga

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