Content
- Introduction
- The Merchant and His Daughters
- Beauty’s Kind Heart
- The Rose and the Beast
- Beauty Enters the Enchanted Castle
- Life with the Beast
- Beauty’s Return Home
- The Breaking of the Spell
- Symbolism and Deeper Meaning
- Themes of Love and Inner Beauty
- Moral of the Story
- Conclusion
Introduction
Among the world’s most beloved fairy tales, “Beauty and the Beast” stands as a timeless story of love, kindness, and transformation. Passed down through generations, this French fairy tale teaches a powerful lesson: true beauty lies not in outward appearance but in the goodness of the heart.
Unlike many fairy tales focused on adventure or magic alone, Beauty and the Beast explores emotional growth, sacrifice, and compassion. It reminds readers that love can transform even the most broken souls.
The Merchant and His Daughters
Once upon a time, in a far-off country, there lived a wealthy merchant. He had been blessed with prosperity and happiness, and his home was filled with laughter and comfort. The merchant had six children — three sons and three daughters.
The youngest daughter was called Beauty, not only because of her lovely appearance, but because of her gentle and humble nature. She was kind to everyone, helped her father willingly, and never spoke harshly.
Her elder sisters, however, were proud and vain. They spent their days admiring themselves, longing for fine clothes, jewels, and admiration from others.
One day, tragedy struck. The merchant lost all his wealth due to misfortune at sea. His ships were destroyed, and his riches vanished overnight. The family was forced to leave their grand house and move to a small country cottage.
While Beauty accepted the change cheerfully and worked hard to support her family, her sisters complained endlessly, blaming their fate and resenting their new life.
Beauty’s Kind Heart
Life in the countryside was difficult, but Beauty rose early each day to cook, clean, and help her father in every possible way. She read books, tended the garden, and brought warmth to the humble home.
Her kindness only increased her beauty, while her sisters grew bitter and resentful.
One day, news arrived that one of the merchant’s ships had survived. Hope returned, and the merchant prepared to travel to the city to reclaim what little fortune remained.
Before leaving, he asked his daughters what gifts they wished him to bring back.
The elder sisters demanded fine dresses, jewels, and ornaments. Beauty, however, simply said:
“Dear father, please bring me a rose — nothing more.”
The merchant smiled and promised to do so.
The Rose and the Beast
On his journey home, the merchant lost his way during a violent storm. Cold, tired, and frightened, he wandered through a dark forest until he saw a glowing castle in the distance.
Seeking shelter, he entered the castle. To his surprise, the halls were warm, the table was filled with food, and everything appeared welcoming — yet no one was there.
After resting, the merchant remembered Beauty’s request. He stepped into the garden and plucked a single rose.
At that moment, a terrifying roar echoed through the garden.
A monstrous Beast appeared, furious that the merchant had stolen from his garden.
“You shall pay for this!” the Beast thundered. “You will die — unless one of your daughters comes willingly to take your place.”
Terrified, the merchant begged forgiveness. The Beast allowed him to return home on one condition: he must send his daughter back in his stead.
Beauty Enters the Enchanted Castle
Heartbroken, the merchant returned home and told his family everything. His sons offered to go instead, but the Beast had demanded a daughter.
Beauty stepped forward bravely.
“Father, I will go. You gave me the rose with love — let me return that love.”
Though her father begged her not to go, Beauty insisted. Soon she arrived at the Beast’s castle.
The Beast treated her kindly despite his frightening appearance. She was given beautiful rooms, fine meals, and freedom to roam the castle. Every evening, the Beast would visit her and ask gently:
“Beauty, will you marry me?”
Each time, she refused politely — and each time, the Beast accepted her answer without anger.
Life with the Beast
Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Beauty came to see that beneath the Beast’s terrifying exterior lay a gentle, lonely soul. He was kind, patient, and thoughtful.
They talked for hours about books, dreams, and life. Slowly, fear faded from Beauty’s heart, replaced by compassion and affection.
One night, Beauty dreamed that her father was ill. She begged the Beast to allow her to visit home.
Though heartbroken, the Beast agreed — but warned her to return within seven days.
Beauty’s Return Home
At home, Beauty’s sisters were stunned by her elegant appearance. Consumed by jealousy, they plotted to keep her from returning to the Beast, hoping his anger would destroy her.
Days passed, and Beauty forgot her promise.
One night, she dreamed of the Beast lying dying in his garden.
Horrified, she rushed back to the castle.
The Breaking of the Spell
Beauty found the Beast collapsed near the rose bush. Tears filled her eyes.
“Please live,” she cried. “I love you.”
At that moment, a bright light filled the garden. The Beast transformed into a handsome prince.
The spell was broken — a punishment placed upon him until someone loved him for who he truly was.
Beauty’s love had saved him.
Symbolism and Deeper Meaning
- The Beast represents inner goodness hidden beneath flaws.
- The Rose symbolizes love and sacrifice.
- Beauty embodies compassion and selflessness.
Themes of Love and Inner Beauty
- True beauty is within.
- Love requires patience and understanding.
- Kindness has transformative power.
Moral of the Story
Do not judge by appearances. True beauty and love come from kindness, humility, and a pure heart.
Conclusion
Beauty and the Beast remains a timeless reminder that love can heal, kindness can transform, and true beauty is eternal.
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