CLEVER HANS.
. . . “Where hast thou left Grethel?” “I led her by the rope, tied her to the rack, and scattered some grass for her.” “That was ill done, Hans; thou shouldst have cast friendly eyes on her.” “Never mind, will do better.”
Hans went into the stable, cut out all the calves’ and sheep’s eyes, and threw them in Grethels’ face.
Grimm’s Fairy Tales.
Translated from the German By Margaret Hunt.
Illustrated By John B. Gruelle.
Cupples and Leon Company: New York. Ca 1914.
Elephant's Picture Book 
Wow, this is sure dark!
It is! I read this part twice before I understood it. The image bothered me and the throwing friendly eyes is well . . . also dark. This version of Grimm’s has great illustrations and many stories I have never read before. This one is probably not suitable for an updated version.
Elephant
The old fairy tales are from a world where death was more frequent, infant mortality high and wars common. Punishments were often hanging, burning or even drawing and quartering. They are much darker as a result, that’s my theory anyway. 🙂
Life overall was harsher.
Elephant
Were these tales originally based on real stories.?
Most people know someone who doesn’t get the point – so in that way, yes you might be right. However, even for a tall tale about a dense individual, the brothers Grimm took the story and ran with it. I should know more about this – you have a good point. Come on experts – time to comment!
Elephant
The brother’s collected folk tales – Wikipedia – interesting – I’m not a fairy tale expert – although people seem to think I am (or should be) – always much to learn and be curious about. The fairy tale experts are very opinionated (I’m opinionated – maybe that’s why people are confused about me?), and some of their theories are entertaining. I think fairy taleologists could come to blows over their ideas – such is their passion for the genre.
Elephant
Thanks for the follow up comments – I have just been reading through and I am reminded of the scold’s bridle and can only despair at such evil treatment being considered just.
I probably have missed this version! Will check my Grimm’s complete collective volume!
It is a weird story – a very dim witted son who doesn’t manage things very well.
Elephant
I am still thinking about the different meanings this tale could have. Bit confusing. Wonderful post though!
Thank you. I had trouble with the meaning of the story too. I think it was poking fun at the literal thinking of the son and his not being very bright. He ended up married to the woman he dragged around and threw animal eyeballs at. Thus, I think the meaning has nothing to do with romance!
Elephant