Illustration til "Den grimme Ælling" i H.C. Andersen, "Eventyr og Historier", Bind 1 1870 - 1873

This illustration for Hans Christian Andersen's "The Ugly Duckling" was created by H.P. Hansen, a 19th-century artist. The scene depicts a barnyard, bustling with various fowl, including the ostracized duckling. Hansen's work reflects the cultural values of his time, where social acceptance and conformity were highly prized. The story, and by extension this image, resonates with anyone who has felt like an outsider, inviting empathy for those who are different. Gender roles within the animal kingdom are also subtly portrayed, reflecting the patriarchal structures of 19th-century society. The stark contrast between the isolated duckling and the communal barnyard evokes a sense of longing for belonging. This illustration invites us to consider how we treat those who don't fit in, and to recognize the potential beauty that lies beneath the surface.