Who wrote Puss in Boots and Little Red Riding Hood? - briefly
Charles Perrault, a French author from the 17th century, is credited with writing "Puss in Boots." The Brothers Grimm, a pair of German linguists and authors, collected and published the tale of "Little Red Riding Hood" in the early 19th century.
Who wrote Puss in Boots and Little Red Riding Hood? - in detail
The authorship of "Puss in Boots" and "Little Red Riding Hood," two of the most enduring tales in European folklore, is attributed to Charles Perrault, a prominent French author who significantly influenced the development of the fairy tale genre. Born in Paris in 1628, Perrault was a member of the Académie Française and served as a civil servant under King Louis XIV. His collection "Histoires ou contes du temps passé" (Stories or Tales of Past Times), published in 1697, included eight tales that have since become classics. Among them were "Cendrillon," known in English as "Cinderella," and "Le Petit Chaperon Rouge," which translates to "Little Red Riding Hood."
Perrault's version of "Puss in Boots" (originally titled "Master Cat, or the Booted") is a charming story about a clever cat who helps his master, a miller's son, rise from poverty to wealth and nobility. The tale is believed to have originated from an Italian folktale called "Il Gatto Mastino" (The Tomcat), which Perrault adapted and refined for French audiences. His skillful storytelling added depth and humor to the original narrative, making it one of the most beloved fairy tales in Western literature.
Similarly, Perrault's "Little Red Riding Hood" is a cautionary tale about a young girl who encounters a wolf while visiting her grandmother. The story warns against talking to strangers and serves as a moral lesson for children. Although the plot of "Little Red Riding Hood" has evolved over time, with various adaptations and interpretations, Perrault's version remains the most well-known and influential.
In addition to these two tales, Perrault's collection also included "The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood," "Bluebeard," and "Riquet with the Tuft." His stories have been translated into numerous languages and continue to captivate readers around the world. Through his works, Perrault established many of the conventions and themes that are now synonymous with fairy tales, making him a pioneer in the genre.
In conclusion, Charles Perrault is widely recognized as the author of "Puss in Boots" and "Little Red Riding Hood." His enduring contributions to children's literature have left an indelible mark on Western storytelling traditions, ensuring that his tales will be enjoyed by future generations.