Does anyone want to discuss "the bell"??

[littleLindkvist]

Hallo... since it seems as though there haven't been a fun discussion about any of his works, I would like to start one..

how was H. C. Andersen's religious believes??

[RJbibliophil]

I haven't read this particular tale, but if it is here on lit-net, I will do so. You are very fortunate, for you can read the originals. I gave a very successful oral interpretation(memorized) of the Little Match Girl just a few months ago. Searching for different translations on the internet is actually how I found Lit-Net!

[Logos]

"The Bell"

http://www.online-literature.com/han..._andersen/975/

[RJbibliophil]

I found it, now I just have to find time!

[RJbibliophil]

Oh, I like that story! It emphasizes the virtueous children who pushed on to their goal, that rich and poor alike could reach it. It is such an inspiring and true fairy tale, which is also a metaphor of life. It would appear Anderson believed in a God, who created a beautiful world, and those who push on towards him will be rewarded. I don't know what the bell would be, something calling, like the Holy Spirit maybe?

Thanks for suggesting such a great story lindkvist!

[littleLindkvist]

Well thank you RJbibliophil,

I am glad that you liked the story, it is one of my favorites, mostly because it is not the normal childrens story.
It appeal to me because I see it as Andersen's point of view.. to me he describe the artists importance..

Being a free spirit is the only way to grasp the meaning and beauty in life... Every one else is just concerned about forfilling the simple needs, and there by not able to look past it to find a true meaning and purpose in life..

[rachel]

Oh, I like that story! It emphasizes the virtueous children who pushed on to their goal, that rich and poor alike could reach it. It is such an inspiring and true fairy tale, which is also a metaphor of life. It would appear Anderson believed in a God, who created a beautiful world, and those who push on towards him will be rewarded. I don't know what the bell would be, something calling, like the Holy Spirit maybe?

Thanks for suggesting such a great story lindkvist!

hugs and a kiss on your sweet face little one.
Iwouldn't presume to know the mind of Anderson but it could be the Holy Spirit for the scriptures says " and when HE, the Holy Spirit comes HE will lead you into all truth and righteousness.

This little story reminds me of the scripture: "see and you shall find, knock and the door shall be opened unto you. Ask and it shall be given."

[RJbibliophil]

Yes, definately, the children were seeking the bell with all of their heart, and they found it.

[RJbibliophil]

Do you have any other tales to recommend for discussion?

[RJbibliophil]

I just submitted a quiz on "The Bell". I hope it will be posted soon.

[grace86]

I loved that story. I would definitely agree that the bell was the Holy Spirit calling to those village people. Only, certain people (the two children) were willing to go out all the way to find it. Some of the people ignored it too. All of the children started out equally, and all pursued. But their devotion was lacking as they got consumed by the preoccupations of the world...like pretty little flower garlands.

I do like how both the poor boy and the prince both got there by taking their own paths but for the same purpose and reason...seems like God's calling to each of his "children." It is in fact, a metaphor and a play on religious people and devoted people.

I could go on, but I will wait for a response. In the meantime, I might read it again, it was wonderful. Thanks Piglet for letting me know.

[Logos]

I just submitted a quiz on "The Bell". I hope it will be posted soon.

It's now been added RJ, thank you very much for doing it!

http://www.online-literature.com/for...php?quizid=258

[grace86]

I liked the quiz, but I got one wrong. Hehehe, I took it first!! I really should be reading right now.

[RJbibliophil]

Thank you for posting it Logos. It was fun.

I agree Grace, that the Bell called to each of the children in a special way. I noticed how the poor boy had a harder way than the prince, but they both arrived at the destination.

[grace86]

It has really become one of my favorite stories now, Piglet!

I forgot what I was going to further mention about it, but rest assured I will post it as soon as I can.

You know, the description of the wood and the hill the boys climb, kind of remind me of C.S. Lewis' descriptions in the Dawn Treader.