Indian Fairy Tales

From the extreme West of the Indo-European world; we go this year to the extreme East. From the soft rain and green turf of Gaeldom; we seek the garish sun and arid soil of the Hindoo. In the Land of Ire; the belief in fairies; gnomes; ogres and monsters is all but dead; in the Land of Ind it still flourishes in all the vigour of animism.

Soils and national characters differ; but fairy tales are the same in plot and incidents; if not in treatment. The majority of the tales in this volume have been known in the West in some form or other; and the problem arises how to account for their simultaneous existence in farthest West and East. Some—as Benfey in Germany; M. Cosquin in France; and Mr. Clouston in England—have declared that India is the Home of the Fairy Tale; and that all European fairy tales have been [viii]brought from thence by Crusaders; by Mongol missionaries; by Gipsies; by Jews; by traders; by travellers. The question is still before the courts; and one can only deal with it as an advocate. So far as my instructions go; I should be prepared; within certain limits; to hold a brief for India. So far as the children of Europe have their fairy stories in common; these—and they form more than a third of the whole—are derived from India. In particular; the majority of the Drolls or comic tales and jingles can be traced; without much difficulty; back to the Indian peninsula.
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Indian Fairy Tales by Joseph Jacobs and John Dickson Batten
Indian Fairy Tales by Joseph Jacobs and John Dickson Batten: Delight in the enchanting world of Indian folklore with "Indian Fairy Tales." Joseph Jacobs and John Dickson Batten bring to life a captivating collection of traditional Indian stories filled with magical creatures, brave heroes, and moral lessons. These timeless tales showcase the rich cultural heritage of India, appealing to readers of all ages with their charm and enduring wisdom.

Key Aspects of the Book "Indian Fairy Tales":
Rich Folklore: The book presents a treasury of Indian folklore, offering readers a glimpse into the country's vibrant storytelling tradition.
Moral Teachings: "Indian Fairy Tales" imparts valuable moral lessons through its engaging narratives, teaching readers about virtues and life's truths.
Cultural Heritage: The collection showcases the diversity and beauty of Indian culture, making it a source of cultural enrichment and enjoyment for readers.

Joseph Jacobs was a folklorist and literary critic known for his collections of fairy tales and folklore. In "Indian Fairy Tales," Jacobs, along with illustrator John Dickson Batten, preserves and shares the magical tales that have been passed down through generations in India.