A Picture-book of Merry Tales

"A Picture-Book of Merry Tales" by Anonymous is a compilation of delightful and amusing folk stories, probably created towards the end of the 1800s. The stories mainly center on a tricky fellow named Tyll Owlglass, and his smart pranks and jokes that often cause surprising and hilarious results. This compilation features different narratives that blend excitement, lightheartedness, and moral teachings, which are attractive to audiences of all ages. The beginning highlights Tyll Owlglass, starting with a look into his peculiar beginnings after having been baptized three times, with one taking place in a muddy ditch. As he develops, his sneaky character starts to show, playing tricks on the people in his village, annoying both the young and old, while cleverly avoiding any consequences. The beginning thoroughly expresses the spirit of Tyll, showcasing him as a playful prankster who gets into misadventures that establish an entertaining chain of stories honoring cleverness and humor.