Story Summary
In the Brothers Grimm tale Iron Hans, a young prince releases a wild man, embarks on a journey of self-discovery, and earns his kingdom through bravery.
A King once owned a forest where hunters never returned. Eventually, a brave man discovered a wild, rusty-colored giant named Iron Hans living in a deep pool. The King imprisoned the wild man in a cage, but the young Prince accidentally threw his golden ball inside. To retrieve it, the Prince freed Iron Hans and fled with him into the forest. Hans placed the boy by a magical well, warning him not to let anything touch the water. However, the boy accidentally dipped his finger and then his hair into the well, turning them both to gold. Hans sent the boy away to learn humility, promising to help him if he ever called. The Prince became a lowly gardener for another King, hiding his golden hair under a cap. When war broke out, the Prince called upon Iron Hans, who provided a great black horse and armor. The Prince led the army to victory and later won a three-day tournament for the Princess's hand. Finally, the Prince's identity was revealed, and Iron Hans appeared at the wedding, freed from a curse and restored to his true form as a powerful King.
The Moral
True maturity and success come from humility, hard work, and the courage to face trials outside of one's comfort zone.
“If you are in need, come to the edge of the forest and cry: Iron Hans!”
Fun Fact
Psychologist Robert Bly used this story as the basis for his 1990 book 'Iron John,' which explored the archetypal journey of male development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Iron Hans?
The story emphasizes that growth requires leaving the safety of home and undergoing trials. It teaches that true nobility is earned through humility, labor, and the help of wise mentors.
Who is the character Iron Hans?
Iron Hans is a 'wild man' of the woods who acts as both a captor and a mentor to the prince. At the end of the story, he is revealed to be a powerful king who was under a magical enchantment.
What does the golden ball symbolize in Iron Hans?
The golden ball represents childhood innocence and the comforts of the royal life. By losing it and following Iron Hans to get it back, the prince begins his transition into adulthood.
Why did the prince's hair turn to gold?
While guarding Iron Hans's magical well, the prince accidentally let his hair touch the water. The golden hair serves as a permanent mark of his connection to the wild man's power and his destiny.
How does Iron Hans help the prince in battle?
When the prince's adopted kingdom is invaded, Iron Hans provides him with a powerful horse and a troop of iron warriors. This allows the prince to prove his bravery anonymously on the battlefield.
Is Iron Hans considered a hero or a villain?
Iron Hans is a mentor figure rather than a villain. While he appears wild and dangerous, he provides the prince with the challenges and resources necessary to become a strong, capable leader.
