Little Zaches, Called Cinnabar

Summary

«Little Zaches, Called Cinnabar» is a satirical fairy tale written by Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffmann, first published in 1819. The story revolves around Little Zaches, an unattractive gnome who, thanks to a magical gift bestowed upon him by a witch, appears to others as a charming person. Everyone who meets Zaches perceives him as beautiful, intelligent, and worthy, despite his true nature and appearance. This gift leads Zaches to achieve great success and high status in society, but it also results in a series of comedic and unexpected situations. Through his tale, Hoffmann critiques the superficial perception of people, the obsession with appearance and status, as well as the vain ambition and hypocrisy of society at that time.