The Three Languages facts for kids

The Three Languages is a classic fairy tale from Germany. It was collected by the famous Brothers Grimm, who gathered many well-known stories. This tale is number 33 in their collection. It is also known as Aarne-Thompson type 671, which is a way experts classify similar folk tales from around the world.

Where the Story Came From

The Brothers Grimm heard this story from a man named Hans Truffer. He lived in a place called Visp. The tale was added to their popular book, Kinder- und Hausmärchen, in the year 1819. It took the place of another story called "The Tomcat with Boots."

The Story of the Young Count

This fairy tale is about a young man who was the only son of a rich count. His father wanted him to learn many things. However, the son seemed to struggle with his studies.

Learning Unusual Skills

The count sent his son away three times to learn from famous teachers. Each time, the son returned with a very unusual skill.

• First, he learned to understand what dogs said when they barked.
• Next, he learned to understand the language of birds.
• Finally, he learned what frogs said.

A Father's Frustration

The count was very angry. He thought his son had learned nothing useful. He felt his son was wasting his time. So, he ordered his servants to take the boy into the woods and end his life.

A Kind Act in the Woods

The servants felt sorry for the young man. They did not want to harm him. Instead, they brought the count the eyes and tongue of a deer. This made it look like they had followed his orders. The young man was now free to wander on his own.

A New Life Begins

As the young man traveled, his special skills helped him. He came to an area that was troubled by many barking dogs. He understood their language.

Solving a Mystery

The dogs were guarding a hidden treasure under a tall tower. Because he could understand them, the young man was able to find and raise the treasure. It was a chest full of gold! The lord of the castle was very grateful. He decided to adopt the young man as his own son.

Becoming a Leader

Later, the young man traveled to Rome. A very important event was happening there. The Pope, the leader of the Catholic Church, had passed away.

A Divine Sign

The cardinals, who are important church leaders, were looking for a new Pope. As the young man arrived, two doves landed on his shoulders. This was seen as a special sign from above. The cardinals believed it meant he was chosen to be the next Pope.

Listening to the Frogs

On his journey, the young man had listened to the frogs. Their croaking had made him feel thoughtful and a little sad. But when the doves advised him to accept the role, he agreed.

Leading the Mass

When it was time for him to lead his first Mass, a special church service, the doves helped him. They whispered in his ear, telling him exactly what to do and say. This allowed him to perform his duties as the new Pope.

The doves approach the bell - a portent signaling the election of the new Pope. Illustration by John D. Batten for Joseph Jacobs's Europa's Fairy Book (1916).