How The Little Mermaid Changed Across Cultures
Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid” is one of his most famous fairy tales. Over the decades, it has taken on different forms in various cultures. From its original 1837 version to modern adaptations in film and theater, the story has continually evolved to reflect the beliefs and perspectives of different societies.
A Look at the Different Versions of “The Little Mermaid”
This article explores how “The Little Mermaid” has changed across different parts of the world. From the tragic ending in Andersen’s original tale to Disney’s happier adaptation, we will examine how culture and tradition have influenced this story. Discover its various interpretations in America, Japan, Russia, China, and Europe.
Hans Christian Andersen’s Original Story
In 1837, Hans Christian Andersen published “The Little Mermaid,” a tragic tale about a mermaid willing to sacrifice everything for love. Instead of a happy ending, she dissolves into sea foam after failing to achieve her goal. The story is filled with symbolism about desire, sacrifice, and unfulfilled happiness, reflecting Andersen’s perspective on love and acceptance of fate.
In the original story, the mermaid does not only wish to become human to be with the prince but also seeks an immortal soul—a concept absent from most adaptations. She has her tongue cut off in exchange for human legs, and while she gains beauty, she endures excruciating pain with every step. She cannot speak to express her emotions. In the end, when the prince chooses another woman, her sisters offer her a way to return to the sea by killing the prince, but she chooses instead to drown and turn into sea foam. This ending reflects the themes of injustice and unbalanced sacrifice in love, which are common in Andersen’s works.
“The Little Mermaid” also carries religious symbolism, particularly the idea of sacrifice and spiritual salvation. Her fate is not seen as a defeat but as a form of transcendence, embodying the acceptance of destiny and a higher purpose. This spiritual theme rarely appears in modern adaptations.
Disney’s Version of “The Little Mermaid”: A Happier Ending
In 1989, Disney released “The Little Mermaid,” introducing a new version of Ariel, the mermaid protagonist. Unlike the original tragedy, Disney gave the story a happy ending, where Ariel achieves her dream of becoming human and living with her beloved prince. This change reflects Western culture’s emphasis on happiness and success despite challenges.
Aside from the happy ending, Disney altered other elements to make the story more suitable for children. Instead of losing her voice through physical sacrifice, Ariel is given the chance to prove herself in other ways. The character of Ursula, inspired by the original sea witch, became a clear-cut villain, providing a more traditional battle between good and evil. These changes presented a more positive message about love, courage, and pursuing one’s dreams.
Japan’s Version: Anime and Mythology Influence
In Japan, various adaptations of “The Little Mermaid” appeared in anime and children’s literature. One of the most well-known is “Andersen Monogatari,” which highlights the story’s tragic elements. Themes of sacrifice and sorrow are more easily accepted in Japanese culture, where anime often depicts suffering as a means of character growth.
Beyond “Andersen Monogatari,” modern anime has also reimagined mermaid themes. Some anime portray mermaids as powerful beings with the ability to heal or alter people’s destinies. While some versions keep the romantic aspect, they often emphasize self-sacrifice and self-acceptance as central themes.
Another important element in Japan’s adaptation is its connection to Japanese mythology. Japan has legends of mermaid-like creatures, such as the ningyo, a mythical mermaid with supernatural abilities. In some Japanese versions of “The Little Mermaid,” the mermaid can bring either good fortune or disaster, showcasing a more complex view of power and sacrifice.
Russia’s Version: A Darker Interpretation
In 1968, the Soviet Union released an animated adaptation of “The Little Mermaid,” which closely followed Andersen’s original tragic story. It retained the sad ending and presented a more serious tone, aligning with Russian culture’s deep appreciation for themes of sacrifice and destiny. This version emphasized the tragedy of unfulfilled dreams.
Beyond this adaptation, Russian literature and film have offered symbolic interpretations of the mermaid’s story. Some versions depict her as a warning about chasing unattainable dreams. Her sacrifice is seen as a lesson in accepting fate, a theme deeply embedded in Russian literature. The somber tone of the story fits the Russian cultural view of suffering as an inevitable part of life.
China’s Version: Folktales of Mermaids
Chinese folklore also includes legends of mermaid-like beings capable of bringing either good luck or misfortune. Some Chinese adaptations of “The Little Mermaid” incorporate spiritual themes, where sacrifice is viewed as a path to enlightenment. Instead of being seen as a tragedy, the mermaid’s fate is reinterpreted as a spiritual transformation.
Additionally, in some Chinese folktales, mermaids are portrayed as guardians of the sea. In these versions, the mermaid’s sacrifice is not just for love but for a greater cause—maintaining the balance of nature. This perspective reflects the Chinese cultural connection to nature and spirituality.
Europe’s Version: Adapting to Local Mythologies
In France, Germany, and other parts of Europe, some adaptations incorporate local mermaid mythology. In certain versions, the mermaid is able to exist between the human and ocean worlds, presenting a more balanced perspective on the story. Other adaptations shift the focus toward morality rather than fate.
Some European versions highlight the mermaid’s role as a mystical being with a deeper connection to nature and human destiny. Her story is often linked to folklore about magical creatures that guide or test people based on their intentions and actions.
Modern Interpretations: Changing Societal Views
In modern times, the story has been revised to reflect evolving societal perspectives. Some versions present Ariel as a more independent woman, not only seeking a prince’s love but also her own freedom and identity. In feminist interpretations, her story is no longer just about love but about self-discovery and empowerment.
The Enduring Impact of “The Little Mermaid” Across Generations
“The Little Mermaid” remains a significant part of popular culture. Though the story continues to change across different cultures, its themes of sacrifice, love, and acceptance of destiny remain timeless. With each new adaptation, new generations discover fresh meanings in a classic tale that continues to touch the hearts of many.