Hans Christian Andersen

Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense, Denmark in 1805.

His fairy stories are internationally known and loved - but how did such a self-obsessed, social misfit create this world of engaging fantasy?

This feature, which is associated with the British Library exhibition, aims to look briefly at the underlying themes to Andersen's fiction. Using clues provided by some of his best-known characters, it explores the dark side of his life, as well as the innocence of his vision.

• You can look at a timeline and six illustrated themes.
• You can enter competitions, send an e-card, find out about our learning and events programmes in London and Yorkshire and see what our shop has to offer.
• You can read an essay by Andersen's biographer, Jackie Wullschlager (PDF format) 169kb.
• You can link to further online resources.