Story Summary
Journey with a brave girl in East of the Sun West of the Moon, a classic Norwegian fairy tale of a white bear, a cursed prince, and a quest to a magical land.
A poor peasant girl agreed to live with a massive White Bear to save her family from poverty. In his enchanted castle, the bear transformed into a handsome prince each night, though she never saw his face in the darkness. Consumed by curiosity fueled by her mother’s advice, she lit a candle one night and was struck by his beauty, but accidentally spilled three drops of hot tallow on his breast. Awoken and heartbroken, the prince revealed he was cursed by a wicked stepmother; now he must marry a long-nosed Troll Princess in a castle lying East of the Sun and West of the Moon. The girl embarked on a perilous journey across the world, seeking the help of the Four Winds. Carried by the mighty North Wind, she reached the castle, outwitted the trolls with her golden treasures, and proved her love by washing the tallow stains from the prince’s shirt—a feat only a pure human heart could achieve. The curse broke, the trolls perished, and the couple was finally reunited in peace.
The Moral
True love and redemption require patience, trust, and the courage to take responsibility for one's mistakes.
“It is a long way to go, and it is a hard way to find, for it lies East of the Sun and West of the Moon.”
Fun Fact
This tale is a cornerstone of Norwegian folklore, first collected by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe in the mid-19th century.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of East of the Sun West of the Moon?
The moral centers on the importance of trust and the power of perseverance. It illustrates that while curiosity can lead to mistakes, true love is willing to travel to the ends of the earth to make amends.
What does 'East of the Sun and West of the Moon' mean?
The phrase refers to a place that is impossible to find using ordinary means or maps. It represents a liminal, magical realm reachable only through supernatural help and extreme determination.
How does the girl save the Prince?
She saves him by successfully washing three drops of tallow from his shirt, a task the trolls fail to complete. This act symbolizes her purity of heart and her rightful status as his true bride.
Is this story similar to Beauty and the Beast?
Yes, it shares many 'Animal Bridegroom' motifs with Beauty and the Beast and the myth of Cupid and Psyche. All these tales involve a girl living with a beast who is secretly a man under a magical curse.
Who are the Four Winds in the story?
The East, West, South, and North Winds are personified forces of nature who help the girl. The North Wind is the oldest and strongest, eventually carrying her to the castle East of the Sun and West of the Moon.
What role do the golden treasures play?
The girl receives a golden apple, carding comb, and spinning wheel from three wise crones. She uses these precious items to bribe the Troll Princess for three nights with the Prince, allowing her to eventually wake him.