The Frog Prince

A Timeless Tale by the Brothers Grimm

Introduction

"The Frog Prince" is one of the most beloved fairy tales collected by the Brothers Grimm. First published in 1812, this enchanting story teaches lessons about keeping promises, compassion, and the transformative power of kindness.

The Story

In a faraway kingdom, there lived a beautiful but spoiled princess who loved to play with a golden ball. One day, while playing near a deep, dark well, she accidentally dropped her favorite toy into the water.

“Oh! If only someone would help me retrieve my golden ball!” she cried.

Suddenly, a frog appeared and offered to fetch the ball—but only if she promised to be his friend, let him eat from her plate, and sleep in her bed. Desperate, the princess agreed. But once she got her ball back, she ran off and forgot her promise.

That evening, as the princess dined with the king, the frog knocked on the palace door. Honoring royal integrity, the king insisted she keep her word. Reluctantly, she allowed the frog to stay. Eventually, in frustration or disgust (depending on the version), she threw the frog against the wall—or kissed him—and he transformed into a handsome prince!

The prince revealed he had been cursed by a wicked witch and could only be freed by the actions of a princess. They fell in love and lived happily ever after.

Main Characters

Princess

The Princess

Spoiled yet kind-hearted; learns the value of honesty and empathy.

Frog Prince

The Frog Prince

A cursed royal transformed into a frog until an act of true kindness breaks the spell.

Moral of the Story

"The Frog Prince" reminds us that appearances can be deceiving and that keeping one’s word—even when inconvenient—is a mark of true character. Kindness, no matter how small, can lead to great transformations.