Hans Christian Andersen: The Story of His Life and Work, 1805-75

Article number 10220159

This biography follows the life and work of Hans Christian Andersen from his difficult childhood in Denmark to his rise as one of the world's most influential storytellers. Elias Bredsdorff examines Andersen’s personal struggles, ambitions, travels, relationships and literary development while placing his work within the cultural and historical context of nineteenth-century Europe. The book explores how Andersen’s experiences shaped both his famous fairy tales and his wider literary output, presenting a detailed portrait of the man behind stories such as The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling, while also analysing his creative evolution and lasting cultural impact.