The Ugly Duckling: Summary Notes

Introduction

• Setting: Bright summer afternoon by a pond.
• Mother duck lays five eggs.

The Unusual Egg

• One egg looks different; mother duck is worried.
• All eggs hatch except one.

Hatching and the Ugly Duckling

• The last egg hatches into a gray duckling.
• Duckling is big and considered ugly by siblings.
• Mother duck feels sad but hopes for change.

Bullying and Isolation

• Duckling is teased and rejected by siblings.
• Taunts: "You're ugly! Go away!"

The Duckling's Journey

• Duckling leaves the family, wanders into the woods.
• Experiences rejection from various animals:
  • Ducks: "You are an ugly cat!"
  • Hens: Pecked and chased away.
  • Dog: Ignores him completely.

Struggles in Winter

• Faces cold, hunger, and loneliness.
• Eventually finds a peasant who takes him in but faces trouble with the family cat.

Transformation in Spring

• Spring brings new life; the duckling sees a river.
• Sees a beautiful swan and admires her.

Realization

• Duckling looks at his reflection and is astonished: he has turned into a handsome swan.
• Understands he was different because he is a swan, not a duck.

Conclusion

• Duckling marries the beautiful swan and lives happily ever after.