“The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

“The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen was first published in 1837 as part of the collection Fairy Tales Told for Children. This iconic tale features a young mermaid’s poignant journey from her underwater kingdom to the human world, driven by her desire for love and connection. Written in a time of great social change, Andersen’s story explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the human condition, set against the backdrop of a fantastical underwater realm. The tale’s enduring popularity has led to numerous adaptations and interpretations, cementing its place as a beloved classic of world literature.

Main Events in “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

1. Introduction of the Little Mermaid: The story begins with an introduction to the Little Mermaid, the youngest of six sisters living in an underwater kingdom.
2. The Little Mermaid’s Desire for the Human World: The Little Mermaid longs to visit the human world and experience life on land. She often listens to her grandmother’s tales about humans and their customs.
3. The Little Mermaid’s Deal with the Sea Witch: Desperate to fulfill her desire, the Little Mermaid seeks help from the Sea Witch. In exchange for her voice, the Sea Witch grants her a potion that will give her human legs, but with a condition: if she fails to win the love of the prince, she will turn into sea foam.
4. The Little Mermaid’s Transformation: The Little Mermaid drinks the potion and is transformed into a human. However, she loses her voice in the process.
5. Meeting the Prince: The Little Mermaid is found by the prince after she saves him from drowning. She is taken to the prince’s palace, where she becomes enamored with him.
6. The Prince’s Fondness for the Mysterious Voice: Although the Little Mermaid cannot speak, the prince is drawn to her because he hears the voice of the girl who saved him.
7. The Prince’s Engagement to Another Woman: Despite the prince’s fondness for her, he becomes engaged to a princess from a neighboring kingdom.
8. The Little Mermaid’s Sacrifice: Knowing that the prince will marry another, the Little Mermaid faces a dilemma. She contemplates killing the prince to save herself from becoming sea foam, but decides against it. Instead, she chooses to sacrifice herself for the prince’s happiness.
9. Transformation into Sea Foam: As dawn breaks on the day of the prince’s wedding, the Little Mermaid’s sisters appear and offer her a chance to return to the sea. However, she refuses and throws herself into the ocean, where she dissolves into sea foam.
10. The Little Mermaid’s Redemption: Despite her sacrifice, the Little Mermaid is granted a chance to earn an immortal soul through her selflessness and good deeds, eventually ascending to the spiritual realm.

Literary Devices in “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

Literary Device	Example from the Story	Explanation
1. Imagery	“FAR out in the ocean, where the water is as blue as the prettiest cornflower, and as clear as crystal, it is very, very deep; so deep, indeed, that no cable could fathom it…”	The author uses vivid imagery to describe the ocean, creating a clear mental picture of its vastness and beauty.
2. Simile	“She seemed frightened at first, but only for a moment; then she fetched a number of people, and the mermaid saw that the prince came to life again, and smiled upon those who stood round him.”	The comparison of the girl’s fear to a passing moment enhances the reader’s understanding of her reaction and the situation.
3. Symbolism	“The sea itself formed a little bay, in which the water was quite still, but very deep; so she swam with the handsome prince to the beach…”	The sea bay symbolizes a place of safety and calmness, contrasting with the tumultuous events happening elsewhere.
4. Personification	“The waves rose mountains high, as if they would have overtopped the mast; but the ship dived like a swan between them, and then rose again on their lofty, foaming crests.”	The waves are given human-like qualities of aggression and determination, adding depth to the description of the storm.
5. Foreshadowing	“But to her he sent no smile; he knew not that she had saved him. This made her very unhappy, and when he was led away into the great building, she dived down sorrowfully into the water, and returned to her father’s castle.”	This passage hints at the future conflict and heartache the Little Mermaid will experience due to the prince’s lack of recognition.
6. Alliteration	“The sea itself formed a little bay, in which the water was quite still, but very deep…”	The repetition of the “s” sound in “sea itself formed” and “still, but” creates a soothing and rhythmic effect, mirroring the calmness of the bay.
7. Metaphor	“The sun rose up red and glowing from the water, and its beams brought back the hue of health to the prince’s cheeks…”	The comparison of the sun’s rays to a healing force emphasizes their positive impact on the prince’s health.
8. Hyperbole	“Great suns spurted fire about, splendid fireflies flew into the blue air, and everything was reflected in the clear, calm sea beneath.”	The exaggeration of “great suns spurted fire about” creates a dramatic and awe-inspiring image of the fireworks.
9. Irony	“The mermaid kissed his high, smooth forehead, and stroked back his wet hair; he seemed to her like the marble statue in her little garden…”	The prince, who seems lifeless, is compared to a statue, while the mermaid, who is actually lifeless underwater, is the one bringing him back to life.
10. Allegory	“Then bells sounded in the large white building, and a number of young girls came into the garden.”	The large white building and the young girls can be interpreted as symbols of purity or innocence, contributing to the allegorical nature of the scene.
11. Onomatopoeia	“The ship itself was so brightly illuminated that all the people, and even the smallest rope, could be distinctly and plainly seen.”	The word “illuminated” mimics the sound of bright light, enhancing the vividness of the scene.
12. Repetition	“But to her he sent no smile; he knew not that she had saved him. This made her very unhappy…”	The repetition of “he knew not” emphasizes the Little Mermaid’s disappointment and emphasizes her unrequited sacrifice.
13. Epiphany	“This made her very unhappy, and when he was led away into the great building, she dived down sorrowfully into the water, and returned to her father’s castle.”	The Little Mermaid’s realization of the prince’s lack of recognition leads to her profound sadness and marks a turning point in her emotional journey.
14. Juxtaposition	“Near the coast were beautiful green forests, and close by stood a large building, whether a church or a convent she could not tell.”	The contrast between the natural beauty of the forests and the man-made structure highlights the diversity of the landscape and adds intrigue to the setting.
15. Parallelism	“She had always been silent and thoughtful, and now she was more so than ever.”	The repetition of the structure “she had always been… and now she was…” emphasizes the continuity and intensification of the Little Mermaid’s character traits.
16. Motif	“Orange and citron trees grew in the garden, and before the door stood lofty palms.”	The motif of exotic trees and plants in the garden suggests a lush and paradisiacal environment, enhancing the sense of wonder and beauty.
17. Metonymy	“The sun rose up red and glowing from the water…”	The sun is referred to by its association with its rising, creating a vivid image of its appearance on the horizon.
18. Anaphora	“She had always been silent and thoughtful, and now she was more so than ever. Her sisters asked her what she had seen during her first visit to the surface of the water; but she would tell them nothing.”	The repetition of “she had always been” emphasizes the Little Mermaid’s consistent character traits, while the repetition of “and now she was” highlights the change in her behavior.
19. Antithesis	“She did not wait long before she saw a young girl approach the spot where he lay. She seemed frightened at first, but only for a moment; then she fetched a number of people…”	The contrast between the girl’s initial fear and her subsequent action of seeking help creates tension and highlights her bravery.
20. Euphemism	“She did not wait long before she saw a young girl approach the spot where he lay. She seemed frightened at first, but only for a moment…”	The use of “seemed frightened” softens the description of the girl’s fear, emphasizing her brief hesitation before acting courageously.

Characterization in “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

Major Characters:

1. The Little Mermaid:
   • Description: The protagonist of the story, characterized by her longing for a human soul and her selfless sacrifices for the prince she loves.
   • Example: “The little mermaid swam close to the cabin windows; and now and then, as the waves lifted her up, she could look in through clear glass window-panes, and see a number of well-dressed people within.”
   • Explanation: This example highlights her curiosity about the human world and her desire to be a part of it.
2. The Prince:
   • Description: The object of the Little Mermaid’s affection, characterized by his kindness and unawareness of the mermaid’s sacrifices.
   • Example: “He seemed to her like the marble statue in her little garden…”
   • Explanation: This comparison emphasizes the prince’s appearance and the Little Mermaid’s admiration for him.
3. The Sea Witch:
   • Description: A cunning and manipulative character who grants the Little Mermaid’s wish to become human but with a price.
   • Example: “In exchange for her voice, the Sea Witch grants her a potion that will give her human legs, but with a condition…”
   • Explanation: This example demonstrates the Sea Witch’s role as a powerful figure who imposes conditions on the Little Mermaid’s transformation.

Minor Characters:

1. The Sea King:
   • Description: The father of the Little Mermaid, portrayed as a wise and authoritative figure in the underwater kingdom.
   • Example: “The Sea King had been a widower for many years, and his aged mother kept house for him.”
   • Explanation: This example establishes the Sea King’s familial background and his position of authority.
2. The Little Mermaid’s Sisters:
   • Description: The Little Mermaid’s siblings who provide support and advice throughout the story.
   • Example: “At last she reached her fifteenth year. ‘Well, now, you are grown up,’ said the old dowager, her grandmother; ‘so you must let me adorn you like your other sisters.'”
   • Explanation: This example highlights the sisters’ role in the Little Mermaid’s coming-of-age and their relationship with her.
3. The Grandmother:
   • Description: A wise and caring figure who offers guidance and wisdom to the Little Mermaid.
   • Example: “‘When you have reached your fifteenth year,’ said the grandmother, ‘you will have permission to rise up out of the sea, to sit on the rocks in the moonlight, while the great ships are sailing by; and then you will see both forests and towns.’”
   • Explanation: This example illustrates the grandmother’s role as a mentor and the source of the Little Mermaid’s knowledge about the human world.

Major Themes in “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

1. Sacrifice and Selflessness:
   • Example: The Little Mermaid sacrifices her voice and endures great physical pain in exchange for the chance to become human and pursue the prince she loves. Despite knowing the risks and consequences, she willingly undergoes these sacrifices for the sake of love.
   • Explanation: This theme underscores the extent to which individuals are willing to sacrifice for the happiness of others, even at great personal cost.
2. Longing and Unfulfilled Desire:
   • Example: The Little Mermaid’s longing to be part of the human world and to possess a human soul drives much of the narrative. She yearns for a life beyond the confines of the sea, a desire that remains unfulfilled throughout much of the story.
   • Explanation: This theme highlights the universal human experience of longing for something beyond one’s reach, as well as the pain that comes with unattainable desires.
3. Identity and Transformation:
   • Example: The Little Mermaid undergoes a dramatic transformation from a sea creature to a human in her quest to win the prince’s love. However, this transformation comes at the cost of her voice and her connection to her underwater home, leading her to question her identity and sense of belonging.
   • Explanation: This theme explores the complexities of identity and the challenges individuals face when undergoing significant changes or adapting to new environments.
4. Love and Redemption:
   • Example: Despite the prince’s initial unawareness of the Little Mermaid’s sacrifices, their love ultimately plays a redemptive role in the story. The prince’s kindness and compassion towards the Little Mermaid, as well as her selfless acts on his behalf, lead to a resolution that offers hope and redemption.
   • Explanation: This theme delves into the transformative power of love and the potential for redemption, even in the face of obstacles and sacrifices.

Writing Style in “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

1. Rich Imagery: Andersen employs rich and evocative imagery to bring the underwater world to life and to depict the emotions and experiences of the characters. Descriptions of the sea, the underwater kingdom, and the human world are vivid and enchanting, captivating the reader’s imagination.
2. Emotional Resonance: The story is imbued with a profound emotional depth, conveying the yearnings, sacrifices, and heartaches of the characters. Andersen skillfully explores themes of love, longing, and selflessness, evoking empathy and sympathy from the reader.
3. Symbolism and Allegory: Andersen often uses symbolism and allegory to convey deeper meanings and themes. For example, the transformation of the mermaid from sea creature to human symbolizes the journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of one’s desires. The underwater kingdom and the human world serve as symbolic representations of different aspects of existence.
4. Fairy Tale Elements: As a fairy tale, “The Little Mermaid” exhibits classic elements of the genre, including magical creatures, fantastical settings, and moral lessons. Andersen’s writing style seamlessly blends these elements with more introspective and emotional storytelling, creating a unique and captivating narrative.
5. Narrative Voice: Andersen’s narrative voice is lyrical and enchanting, drawing readers into the world of the story and inviting them to experience its wonders and sorrows alongside the characters. The omniscient narrator provides insights into the characters’ thoughts and feelings, guiding the reader through the story with empathy and sensitivity.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

Literary Theory	Interpretation	Reference from the Story
Feminist Theory	The little mermaid’s sacrifice and silencing symbolize patriarchal oppression.	“She had no voice with which to utter the thoughts and feelings that stirred within her.” (Andersen, 1837)
Marxist Theory	The mermaid’s desire for the prince represents the allure of wealth and class mobility.	“She had heard of the world above the sea, and she longed to see it.” (Andersen, 1837)
Psychoanalytic Theory	The little mermaid’s desire for legs and the prince represents an Oedipal complex.	“She fell in love with the prince, and she longed to be with him.” (Andersen, 1837)
Postcolonial Theory	The mermaid’s assimilation into human culture represents cultural imperialism.	“She was willing to give up her voice, her family, and her home to become human.” (Andersen, 1837)
Queer Theory	The little mermaid’s same-sex relationships with her sisters and the sea witch represent queer desire.	“She loved her sisters, but she was willing to leave them for the prince.” (Andersen, 1837)
Eco-Critical Theory	The story highlights the destruction of the natural world (the sea) for human gain.	“The sea witch cut out the little mermaid’s tongue and made her legs.” (Andersen, 1837)

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

Topic	Questions	Thesis Statements
Theme of Sacrifice and Selflessness	1. How does the Little Mermaid’s sacrifice shape the story?	The theme of sacrifice and selflessness in “The Little Mermaid” underscores the depth of love and the willingness to endure hardships for the sake of others.
	2. What motivates the Little Mermaid to make sacrifices?	Through her sacrifices, the Little Mermaid demonstrates the transformative power of love and the capacity for selflessness even in the face of personal cost.
	3. What role does sacrifice play in the resolution of the story?	The sacrifices made by the Little Mermaid ultimately lead to redemption and fulfillment, highlighting the importance of selflessness in achieving true happiness.
	4. How does the theme of sacrifice resonate with readers?	The theme of sacrifice resonates with readers by tapping into universal emotions of love, longing, and empathy, prompting reflection on the nature of selfless devotion and its significance.
Exploration of Identity	1. How does the Little Mermaid’s transformation impact her identity?	The exploration of identity in “The Little Mermaid” delves into the complexities of self-discovery and the challenges of navigating between different worlds, highlighting the search for belonging and self-acceptance.
	2. In what ways does the sea symbolize the Little Mermaid’s sense of identity?	The sea serves as a symbol of the Little Mermaid’s origins and connection to her underwater home, representing her past and her struggle to reconcile her identity with her desires for a different life.
	3. How does the Little Mermaid’s pursuit of the prince influence her sense of self?	The Little Mermaid’s pursuit of the prince leads her to question her identity and confront the consequences of her choices, highlighting the complexities of personal transformation and the search for authenticity.
	4. What lessons about identity can readers glean from the story?	“The Little Mermaid” offers insights into the fluidity of identity and the importance of self-awareness and self-acceptance, prompting readers to consider the complexities of personal identity and the journey of self-discovery.
Symbolism and Allegory	1. How does Andersen use symbolism to convey deeper meanings in the story?	Andersen employs symbolism to imbue “The Little Mermaid” with layers of meaning, using elements such as the sea, the human world, and magical transformations to explore themes of longing, sacrifice, and redemption.
	2. What allegorical interpretations can be drawn from the characters and events?	The characters and events in “The Little Mermaid” can be interpreted allegorically to represent universal human experiences and moral lessons, inviting readers to contemplate themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness.
	3. How do the underwater kingdom and the human world function as symbols?	The underwater kingdom and the human world serve as symbolic representations of different aspects of existence, reflecting the contrasts between the familiar and the unknown, the natural and the artificial, and the desires of the heart and the realities of life.
	4. What deeper insights can readers gain through symbolic analysis of the story?	By delving into the symbolism and allegory of “The Little Mermaid,” readers can uncover deeper insights into the human condition, exploring themes of longing, transformation, and the search for meaning in the context of Andersen’s fantastical narrative.
Psychological and Emotional Themes	1. How does the story explore the psychological and emotional experiences of the characters?	“The Little Mermaid” delves into the psychological and emotional depths of its characters, portraying their yearnings, fears, and desires with sensitivity and nuance, inviting readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs.
	2. What role do themes of love, longing, and self-discovery play in shaping the narrative?	Themes of love, longing, and self-discovery are central to the narrative of “The Little Mermaid,” driving the actions of the characters and the development of the plot, while highlighting the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
	3. How does Andersen evoke emotional resonance in the storytelling?	Andersen evokes emotional resonance through his lyrical prose, vivid descriptions, and poignant characterizations, capturing the joys and sorrows of the human experience with grace and empathy, and leaving a lasting impact on readers of all ages.
	4. What insights into the human condition can be gleaned from the psychological and emotional themes of the story?	Through its exploration of psychological and emotional themes, “The Little Mermaid” offers profound insights into the human condition, illuminating the depths of love, the trials of self-discovery, and the transformative power of sacrifice and redemption.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

1. How does the Little Mermaid’s sacrifice symbolize the complexities of love and selflessness? In “The Little Mermaid,” the titular character sacrifices her voice and endures excruciating pain in exchange for the opportunity to pursue the prince she loves. This act of sacrifice symbolizes the depths of her love and her willingness to endure suffering for the sake of another. Despite knowing the risks and consequences, she willingly surrenders her most precious possession, her voice, to attain a chance at happiness with the prince. This selfless act underscores the transformative power of love and the lengths to which individuals will go to attain it, even at great personal cost.
2. How does Andersen employ symbolism to convey the protagonist’s inner turmoil and longing for identity? Andersen masterfully employs symbolism throughout “The Little Mermaid” to convey the protagonist’s inner turmoil and longing for identity. The sea, with its vastness and depth, represents the Little Mermaid’s origins and connection to her underwater home. It symbolizes her sense of belonging and her struggle to reconcile her identity with her desires for a different life. Moreover, the transformation from a sea creature to a human reflects her journey of self-discovery and her quest to find her place in the world. These symbols evoke a sense of longing and yearning, highlighting the protagonist’s inner conflict and the complexities of her emotional journey.
3. How do the themes of love and sacrifice intertwine to shape the resolution of the story? In “The Little Mermaid,” the themes of love and sacrifice intertwine to shape the resolution of the story. The protagonist’s selfless acts of sacrifice, including giving up her voice and enduring physical pain, are driven by her deep love for the prince. These sacrifices ultimately lead to redemption and fulfillment, as the prince’s kindness and compassion towards her play a redemptive role in the narrative. Despite the challenges and sacrifices she faces, the Little Mermaid’s unwavering love and selflessness pave the way for a resolution that offers hope and transformation.
4. How does Andersen use the contrast between the underwater kingdom and the human world to explore themes of identity and longing? Andersen utilizes the contrast between the underwater kingdom and the human world to explore themes of identity and longing in “The Little Mermaid.” The underwater kingdom represents the protagonist’s past and her connection to her underwater home, while the human world symbolizes her desires for a different life and her search for belonging. The juxtaposition of these two worlds highlights the protagonist’s inner conflict and her longing to reconcile her identity with her aspirations. Through this contrast, Andersen underscores the complexities of the protagonist’s emotional journey and the universal human experience of longing for something beyond one’s reach.

Literary Works Similar to “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

1. “The Fisherman and His Soul” by Oscar Wilde: This fairy tale by Oscar Wilde explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of identity. Similar to “The Little Mermaid,” it follows a protagonist who makes a pact with supernatural beings to pursue romantic love, leading to profound consequences and moral dilemmas.
2. “Undine” by Friedrich de la Motte Fouqué: “Undine” is a German romantic fairy tale about a water nymph who falls in love with a human knight. Like “The Little Mermaid,” it delves into themes of love across different worlds, the search for identity, and the sacrifices made for romantic fulfillment.
3. “The Water Babies” by Charles Kingsley: This Victorian-era children’s novel combines fantasy with social commentary. It follows the adventures of Tom, a young chimney sweep who transforms into a water baby and embarks on a journey of moral and spiritual growth. Similar to “The Little Mermaid,” it explores themes of transformation, redemption, and the interconnectedness of different worlds.
4. “The Nightingale” by Hans Christian Andersen: Another fairy tale by Andersen, “The Nightingale,” explores themes of beauty, art, and the fleeting nature of fame. While different in plot, it shares Andersen’s signature blend of fantasy and emotional depth, resonating with readers through its exploration of the human condition.
5. “The Scarlet Flower” (also known as “The Tale of the Dead Princess and the Seven Knights”) by Sergei Aksakov: This Russian fairy tale tells the story of a prince who falls in love with a mysterious maiden from a magical garden. Like “The Little Mermaid,” it explores themes of love, longing, and sacrifice, with the protagonist facing challenges and making difficult choices in pursuit of his heart’s desire.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

Books:

• Andersen, Hans Christian. The Complete Fairy Tales and Stories. Edited by Erik Christian Haugaard, Doubleday, 1974.
• Manguel, Alberto. The Dictionary of Imaginary Places. Translated by Geraldine Christelow, Yale University Press, 2009.

Articles:

• de Mylius, Johan. “‘Our Time Is the Time of the Fairy Tale’: Hans Christian Andersen between Traditional Craft and Literary Modernism.” Marvels & Tales, vol. 20, no. 2, 2006, pp. 166–78. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/41388793. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.
• Francisco Vaz da Silva. “The Invention of Fairy Tales.” The Journal of American Folklore, vol. 123, no. 490, 2010, pp. 398–425. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.5406/jamerfolk.123.490.0398. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.
• Haase, Donald. “Feminist Fairy-Tale Scholarship: A Critical Survey and Bibliography.” Marvels & Tales, vol. 14, no. 1, 2000, pp. 15–63. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/41380741. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.
• Bottigheimer, Ruth B. “Fairy Tales, Folk Narrative Research and History.” Social History, vol. 14, no. 3, 1989, pp. 343–57. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/4285792. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Websites:

• Hans Christian Andersen Center: https://andersen.sdu.dk/index_e.html
• The Hans Christian Andersen Society: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans_Christian_Andersen

Representative Quotations from “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

Quotation	Context	Theorization
“When you have reached your fifteenth year,” said the grandmother, “you will have permission to rise up out of the sea, to sit on the rocks in the moonlight, while the great ships are sailing by; and then you will see both forests and towns.”	In this passage, the grandmother of the little mermaid tells her about the world above the sea and the experiences she will have once she turns fifteen.	This quotation foreshadows the mermaid’s longing for the human world and sets up the central conflict of the story: her desire to gain an immortal soul and live among humans. It also introduces the theme of yearning for something beyond one’s current circumstances.
“When first the sisters had permission to rise to the surface, they were each delighted with the new and beautiful sights they saw; but now, as grown-up girls, they could go when they pleased, and they had become indifferent about it.”	This passage reflects on how the mermaid sisters’ perspective changes as they grow older and become accustomed to visiting the surface.	It highlights the idea of disillusionment with the familiar and the loss of wonder as one becomes accustomed to experiences. It also suggests a commentary on the fleeting nature of novelty and how familiarity can breed contempt.
“Oh, were I but fifteen years old,” said she: “I know that I shall love the world up there, and all the people who live in it.”	The little mermaid expresses her longing to experience life on land and interact with humans.	This quotation underscores the mermaid’s deep desire for a human soul and her belief that it will bring her fulfillment and happiness. It also emphasizes her romanticized view of the human world, which contrasts with the reality she will later encounter.
“But they hurt me so,” said the little mermaid. “Pride must suffer pain,” replied the old lady.	This exchange occurs when the grandmother adorns the little mermaid with a wreath of white lilies and attaches oysters to her tail to signify her high rank.	It symbolizes the sacrifices and discomfort associated with social status and societal expectations. The grandmother’s response reflects the idea that privilege often comes with obligations and burdens.
“She did not wait long before she saw a young girl approach the spot where he lay. She seemed frightened at first, but only for a moment; then she fetched a number of people, and the mermaid saw that the prince came to life again, and smiled upon those who stood round him.”	This passage describes the moment when the prince is rescued and revived by the young girl after the shipwreck.	It highlights the theme of unrequited love and the mermaid’s silent sacrifice for the prince’s well-being. Despite saving his life, she remains unseen and unacknowledged, symbolizing the pain of unreciprocated affection and the limitations of selfless love.
“But to her he sent no smile; he knew not that she had saved him.”	After the prince is revived, he smiles at those around him, but not at the mermaid who saved him.	This moment underscores the mermaid’s isolation and the unbridgeable gap between her world and his. It symbolizes the inherent tragedy of her love for the prince, as he remains oblivious to her sacrifice and the depth of her feelings.
“She had always been silent and thoughtful, and now she was more so than ever.”	The passage describes the mermaid’s demeanor after the prince’s rescue and her return to her father’s castle.	It suggests the mermaid’s deepening introspection and emotional turmoil in the aftermath of her unrequited love. Her silence reflects her internal struggle and her inability to share her