Who the Ugly Duckling is
The Ugly Duckling begins life on a farm in summer, hatching from an unusually large egg. His egg takes longer to hatch than the others, and he emerges big, gray and awkward. The other birds peck and mock him rather than welcome him.
What the Ugly Duckling wants
The Ugly Duckling searches for a home after cruelty drives him away from the farm. He runs over the fence and spends a harsh autumn and winter on his own. His wandering gives the tale its concern with loneliness and the pain of not belonging.
The Ugly Duckling and the others in the story
Even those around him on the farm offer little kindness or comfort. His brothers and sisters are rude, the hens are cruel, and the farm girl kicks at him. Andersen connects this rejection with his own experience of being teased as a boy. Through the duckling, he gives attention to someone others dismiss because of how he looks.
Questions
Who is the Ugly Duckling?
The Ugly Duckling is a large gray chick whose story follows his flight from a cruel farm and search for a home.
Why does the Ugly Duckling leave the farm?
He leaves because the birds mock and peck him, and even the farm girl treats him cruelly.
How does the Ugly Duckling relate to Andersen?
Andersen draws on his own experience of being teased for his appearance. The duckling's rejection reflects the author's sympathy for people who feel they do not belong.
