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The Shepherd's Story of the Bond of Friendship

From Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen

This story is from the fairy tale collection of Hans Christian Andersen, the Danish writer whose work appeared throughout the nineteenth century. It is not a fairy tale in the usual sense but a historical tale set in Greece during the period of Ottoman rule, reflecting the struggles and traditions of the Greek people. The text reflects its era; a few period terms have been modernised. Andersen wrote fiction of many kinds—some whimsical, some grave—and this story belongs to his more serious vein: it examines friendship, honour, love, and the sacrifices demanded by loyalty. The bond of friendship the story describes was a real custom in parts of Greece, and Andersen uses it to explore what it means to place another's good above one's own.

Band

Red · Complex language and analysisTypical starting range: ages 15–17

Length

long · about 1470 words in 5 sections · 2 pictures

Source

Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Andersen, H. C. Andersen

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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