Donkey Cabbages

The Yellow Fairy Book (1894) - p.46

Donkey Cabbages is a German fairy tale collected by the Brothers Grimm, appearing as tale number 122 in their collection. The story is known for its unusual title and the magical elements that drive its plot. It belongs to the Aarne-Thompson classification system as type 567, "The Magic Bird Heart," which involves themes of transformation, magical objects, and the quest for a rare treasure.

Plot Summary

The tale begins with a young hunter who encounters a wicked witch in the forest. The witch tricks him, but he manages to escape by using his wit and bravery. In his adventures, the hunter hears of a beautiful princess who lives in a castle, where a garden contains magical cabbages. Anyone who eats these cabbages is transformed into a donkey. The hunter, intrigued by the story, decides to venture into the garden and steal some of these magical cabbages.

After successfully stealing the cabbages, the hunter learns of another magical item: a bird's heart that allows anyone who possesses it to wish for whatever they desire. The tale follows the hunter's quest to find this magical heart, facing various challenges and using the donkey cabbages to overcome obstacles. Along the way, he encounters a king who has been transformed into a donkey by eating the cabbages. The hunter uses his knowledge of the magical cabbages to restore the king to his human form, earning his gratitude and support.

The story culminates in the hunter's confrontation with the witch, using the magical bird's heart to defeat her. In the end, the hunter marries the princess, and they live happily ever after, with the magical items ensuring their kingdom's prosperity.

Themes and Analysis

"Donkey Cabbages" explores themes of transformation, cunning versus strength, and the quest for true love. The hunter's use of intelligence to overcome his adversaries rather than brute force is a common motif in fairy tales, emphasizing the value of wit and cleverness. The magical elements, such as the transformational cabbages and the bird's heart, symbolize the unexpected and often challenging paths to achieving one's desires.

The story also touches on the theme of redemption, as seen in the hunter's assistance to the king transformed into a donkey. This act of kindness not only helps the hunter in his quest but also restores the king to his rightful state, highlighting the importance of compassion and aid to those in need.

Cultural Significance

"Donkey Cabbages" is less well-known than some of the Brothers Grimm's other tales, but it remains a fascinating example of the rich tapestry of German folklore. The story's blend of humor, adventure, and magic captures the imagination, offering insights into the values and beliefs of the culture from which it originates.