The Sleeping Beauty and Other Fairy Tales from the Old French

''The Sleeping Beauty and other fairy tales from the Old French'' retold by Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch is a collection of classic fairy tales that draw on the rich narrative traditions of old French literature, likely compiled in the early 20th century. This anthology features beloved stories such as ''The Sleeping Beauty,'' ''Cinderella,'' ''Blue Beard,'' and ''Beauty and the Beast,'' showcasing enchanting characters that include fairies, princesses, and valiant princes. Quiller-Couch’s retellings aim to preserve the charm and moral lessons of these timeless tales, making them accessible for contemporary readers. The opening of the collection sets the stage for the iconic story of ''The Sleeping Beauty.'' It begins with a royal couple longing for a child, whose birth leads to a grand celebration among the fairies, with each one bestowing gifts on the new princess, Aurora. Their joy is quickly dimmed by the ominous pronouncement of an overlooked fairy who curses Aurora to die from a spindle's prick. However, another fairy softens the curse, declaring that Aurora will instead fall into a deep sleep, which will only be broken by a prince's kiss. As the narrative unfolds, we see the princess grow up unaware of her fate, until destiny intervenes, preparing to weave together the magical elements of love, fate, and redemption central to the tale.