Germany, Democratic Republic (DDR) #1344a (1971) – Scenes from The Town Musicians of Bremen by the Brothers Grimm

Description

Germany, Democratic Republic (DDR) #1344a (1971) – Scenes from The Town Musicians of Bremen by the Brothers Grimm

Sheet of 6: #1339-1344

“The Town Musicians of Bremen” is a well-known German fairy tale collected by the Brothers Grimm. The tale tells the story of four animals – a donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster – who, no longer wanted by their owners, decide to set out on a journey to Bremen to become musicians. The animals hope to find a new life and career in the city.

Summary of “The Town Musicians of Bremen”:

1. The Discontented Animals:

• The story begins with four domestic animals who are getting old and are no longer useful to their owners. The donkey, dog, cat, and rooster decide to leave their homes in search of a better life.

2. The Road to Bremen:

• The animals meet on the road to Bremen and decide to travel together. Along the way, they come across a cottage with robbers inside. The clever animals use their combined skills to frighten the robbers away.

3. The New Home:

• The animals decide not to go to Bremen after all, as they found the robbers’ cottage a comfortable place to live. They scare off the robbers and settle into their new home.

4. The Robbers’ Return:

• The robbers return to their cottage, and the animals, working together again, manage to drive them away for good.

5. Living Happily Ever After:

• The animals, having successfully scared off the robbers, enjoy their newfound home. The story ends with the animals living happily ever after in the robbers’ cottage.

Themes:

• The tale emphasizes the theme of teamwork, resourcefulness, and the idea that even those considered old or useless can contribute value. The animals’ journey also involves a comedic element as they use their combined efforts to outsmart the robbers.

“The Town Musicians of Bremen” is celebrated for its humor, adventure, and the enduring message of cooperation and resilience. The story has been adapted into various forms of media and continues to be a beloved classic in children’s literature.