Story Summary
Discover Bearskin, a Grimm Brothers' tale of a soldier who strikes a deal with the devil, enduring seven years of filth to gain wealth and find true love.
A discharged soldier, left with nothing, meets a green-coated devil in a forest. The devil offers wealth under one condition: for seven years, the soldier must not wash, cut his hair or nails, or say the Lord's Prayer, and must wear a heavy bearskin cloak. If he dies during this time, the devil claims his soul; if he survives, he remains rich and free. The soldier agrees, using the devil's bottomless pockets to help the poor. Years later, he helps an old man pay his debts, and in return, the man offers one of his daughters in marriage. While the elder two mock his filthy appearance, the youngest pledges her loyalty, splitting a ring with him as a promise. When the seven years end, the devil is forced to clean and groom the soldier. Now a handsome, wealthy gentleman, he returns to his bride. The elder sisters, realizing what they lost, take their own lives in despair, allowing the devil to boast that while he lost the soldier's soul, he gained two in his place.
The Moral
True character and kindness reside beneath the surface, and loyalty to a promise is rewarded over vanity and judgment.
“I am Bearskin, but my heart is still human.”
Fun Fact
The story is part of a global tradition of 'the man who didn't wash,' reflecting ancient rites of passage and tests of endurance common in many cultures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Bearskin?
The story teaches that inner goodness is more valuable than outward appearance. It also highlights how steadfastness and charity during hardship can lead to ultimate redemption and happiness.
What were the conditions of the Devil's pact?
The soldier had to wear a bearskin cloak, never wash himself, never cut his hair or nails, and never pray for seven years. If he survived without breaking these rules, he would be rich for life.
How does Bearskin find a bride?
He helps a poor man pay his debts, and the man offers him one of his daughters. While the elder sisters reject him for his filth, the youngest sees his kind heart and agrees to marry him.
What happens at the end of the seven years?
The Devil is forced to clean the soldier and trim his hair, restoring his handsome appearance. The soldier returns to his bride as a wealthy gentleman to fulfill his marriage promise.
Do the sisters get punished in Bearskin?
Yes, the elder sisters are so overcome with jealousy and rage upon seeing Bearskin’s true form and wealth that they take their own lives. This allows the Devil to claim two souls.
Is Bearskin a traditional German fairy tale?
Yes, it was collected by the Brothers Grimm and first published in 1815. It belongs to the Aarne-Thompson-Uther type 361, which focuses on a man gaining wealth through a deal with the devil.
