Donkeyskin

Book Review

«Donkeyskin» is one of Charles Perrault's well-known fairy tales, which, like many of his works, contains a profound moral message. The story of a princess forced to hide under a donkey's skin to avoid an unwanted marriage raises themes of freedom of choice, inner beauty, and strength of spirit. Critics note that the tale, despite its apparent simplicity, touches on complex social and ethical issues. Perrault masterfully uses elements of magic and fantasy to convey important life lessons to the reader. It is also emphasized that «Donkeyskin» serves as an example of how fairy tales can be not only entertaining but also a tool for education and the transmission of cultural values. Visual imagery and symbolism, such as the donkey skin, play a key role in the development of the plot and the revelation of the characters' traits. Critics also highlight Perrault's style, which combines elegance and simplicity, making his works accessible to a broad audience.