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How did the Brothers Grimm transform from poor students into literary giants? His story is touching!
The Brothers Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm, are well-known fairy tale writers around the world. Their experiences from poor and helpless students to the pinnacle of literature are touching. The story of these brothers is not just a journey of achievement, but a legacy of resilience, family and culture. Now, when we look through their Grimm's Fairy Tales, the hardships and struggles behind these stories also emerge.
A difficult childhood
The Brothers Grimm were born in Steinau, Germany, to parents whose financial situation had always been poor. His father was a magistrate, but after his death in 1796, the family's financial support disappeared instantly. Jacob became the breadwinner of the family at the age of 11 and took on the responsibility of supporting his younger brother William. They even had to move to housing with worse conditions, but they never gave up their studies and were determined to become excellent students.
This difficult period inspired their desire and pursuit of knowledge.
Excellent academic achievement
On their academic journey, the brothers overcame many difficulties. Jacob graduated at the top of his class from high school in Kassel, while William also graduated despite a year's delay due to health problems. During college, their fortunes changed again, as their social status was not high enough to receive scholarships, but they were freed from other distractions and focused entirely on their studies.
The intersection of law and literature
While studying law at the University of Marburg, Jacob and William were influenced by the famous professor Friedrich Carl von Savigny, and gradually began to develop a strong interest in German literature and folklore. Jacob went to Paris with Savigny in 1806 as an assistant, while William concentrated on collecting German literary books during this time.
All these efforts eventually led them on a journey to collect and compile folk tales.
The birth of "Grimm's Fairy Tales"
After years of collecting and compiling, the brothers published "Children's and Family Fairy Tales" for the first time in 1812. This work not only expanded to the entire Germany, but also became popular all over the world. Although their story was criticized at first, it eventually became a classic of German literature and was hailed as a cultural treasure. These fairy tales are not only entertainment for children, but also a profound reflection on the social culture at that time.
The influence of culture
The fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm have had a profound impact on literature and culture around the world. Their works have been translated into dozens of languages and inspired many writers and artists, such as Russia's Alexander Afanashev and Britain's Joseph Jacobs. Even during the Nazi period, their works were misused to support specific cultural ideas, leaving an indelible mark on global literary history.
The Legacy of the Brothers Grimm
As time goes by, the stories of the Brothers Grimm continue to be told and adapted. Their works have been adapted into countless films, music and artistic creations, and continue to attract readers across generations. To this day, the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm are still included in the World Cultural Heritage. They not only retain the cultural characteristics of Germany, but also deepen the global love for fairy tales and oral stories.
In these fairy tales, we understand the importance of bravery, wisdom and justice.
How did Jacob and William overcome poverty and hardship in the past until they became world-renowned writers? Can we find similar courage and persistence in us today?
