Description
By A. J. Glinski. Translated by Maude Ashurst Biggs and illustrated by Cecile Walton. Step into a world of enchanted forests, hidden kingdoms, magical creatures, and timeless wonder in this classic collection of Polish folklore and fairy tales.
In Polish Fairy Tales, folklorist A. J. Glinski presents a captivating treasury of traditional stories drawn from the rich oral traditions of Poland. Filled with adventure, mystery, humor, and imagination, these tales preserve the legends and folk beliefs passed down through generations in villages, castles, and countryside homes across the Polish lands.
Within these pages readers encounter brave princes, clever peasants, enchanted maidens, dragons, witches, talking animals, and supernatural beings from the world of Slavic folklore. Magical journeys unfold through dark forests and ancient kingdoms where courage, kindness, wisdom, and perseverance are rewarded, while greed and cruelty often meet fitting ends. Deeply rooted in the traditions and imagination of the Polish people, these stories reflect the hopes, fears, and values of a culture shaped by centuries of history and legend.
Unlike literary fairy tales written solely for entertainment, these narratives arose from genuine folk traditions, giving them a unique authenticity and connection to the cultural heritage of Eastern Europe. Glinski’s collection helped preserve many traditional tales at a time when old storytelling customs were beginning to disappear in the modern age.
Written in an engaging and accessible style, Polish Fairy Tales continues to enchant readers of all ages with its magical atmosphere and unforgettable characters. More than a collection of stories, it is a window into the mythic imagination and folklore of Poland and the wider Slavic world.
This carefully restored reprint revives a beloved classic of European folklore for modern audiences. Ideal for lovers of mythology, fairy tales, fantasy, and Slavic culture, Polish Fairy Tales remains a timeless journey into the magical world of old Poland.
About the author: A. J. Glinski (1817–1886) was a Polish writer and folklorist best known for collecting and preserving traditional Polish folk tales and legends.
His work helped safeguard Poland’s oral storytelling traditions and introduced generations of readers to the rich mythology and folklore of the Polish people.
Table of contents:
The Frog Princess
Princess Miranda and Prince Hero
The Eagles
The Whirlwind
The Good Ferryman and the Water Nymphs
The Princess of the Brazen Mountain
The Bear in the Forest Hut
Appendix
