Hans Christian Andersen

Andersen, Hans Christian (1805–75), Danish writer, best remembered for his 168 fairy tales. Based on folklore and observation of people and events in Andersen's life, they have a deceptively simple, slyly humorous style and often carry a moral message for adults as well as children. Among his best known stories are “The Ugly Duckling,” “The Emperor's Clothes,” and “The Red Shoes.”