Story Summary
Explore the classic tale Hans in Luck by the Brothers Grimm. Follow Hans as he trades a lump of gold for simpler things, discovering that happiness is free.
After seven years of faithful service, Hans’s master rewarded him with a lump of gold as big as his head. Hans set off for home, carrying the heavy gold in a cloth. As he grew tired, he saw a rider on a fine horse and traded his gold for the horse to ease his journey. Soon, the horse bolted, and Hans traded it for a cow, thinking of the milk he would enjoy. But the cow was old and dry, so he traded it for a pig, then the pig for a goose, and the goose for a heavy grindstone. While stopping for a drink at a well, the stone slipped and sank into the water. Instead of being upset, Hans leaped for joy, crying out that he was the luckiest man alive to be rid of his burdens. He walked the rest of the way to his mother's house with a light heart and empty hands, feeling truly free.
The Moral
True happiness is found in a light heart and freedom from material burdens, rather than the accumulation of wealth.
“How happy I am! No man under the sun is so lucky as I!”
Fun Fact
Unlike most Brothers Grimm stories, Hans in Luck contains no supernatural elements or magic; it functions as an ironic commentary on economics and the nature of satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Hans in Luck?
The moral is that happiness is a state of mind and not dependent on material wealth. Hans views every trade—no matter how objectively poor—as a way to simplify his life and find contentment.
Why did Hans trade his gold for a horse?
Hans found the gold heavy and difficult to carry. When he saw the horseman, he valued the ease of travel and the comfort of riding over the monetary value of the gold.
Is Hans considered a fool or a philosopher?
While most readers see Hans as a fool for being easily swindled, some interpret him as a philosopher who understands that possessions are merely burdens that prevent true peace of mind.
What are the specific trades Hans makes in the story?
Hans trades his lump of gold for a horse, the horse for a cow, the cow for a pig, the pig for a goose, and finally the goose for a grindstone and a common stone.
How does the story Hans in Luck end?
The story ends with Hans accidentally dropping his heavy stones into a well. Instead of grieving his loss, he feels relieved and returns home to his mother feeling like the luckiest man in the world.
Who wrote the story Hans in Luck?
The story was collected and published by the Brothers Grimm in their famous 'Children's and Household Tales' in the early 19th century.