A wealthy merchant with six children faces ruin and moves his family to a humble cottage. The youngest daughter, known for her beauty and kindness, is contrasted with her vain sisters. When the merchant attempts to bring back a rose for her, he is confronted by a fearsome beast who demands that one of his daughters come to live with him in exchange for the merchant's life. The youngest daughter selflessly offers herself, believing it is better than her father suffering. At the beast's palace, she discovers a world of luxury and kindness, despite the beast's frightening appearance. Over time, she grows fond of him, appreciating his gentle nature, though she repeatedly refuses his marriage proposals. After a visit home, influenced by her jealous sisters, she delays her return, causing the beast to fall into despair. Realizing her love for him, she rushes back to find him dying. Her declaration of love breaks the enchantment, revealing the beast as a handsome prince cursed by a fairy. The story concludes with the prince and Beauty united, while her sisters are punished for their jealousy, turned into statues until they repent. The tale emphasizes the value of inner beauty and true love over superficial appearances.
By Dinah Mulock · First published 1854 · Genre: Fairy Tales, Romance, Fantasy