
Length4h 8m
About this audiobook
In the captivating collection "Twenty-Two Goblins," the anonymous author weaves a rich tapestry of tales that intertwine wit, moral lessons, and the fantastical elements of Indian folklore. This 14th-century work exemplifies the frame story literary style, wherein multiple narratives are nested within the overarching structure, showcasing the cunning and cleverness of the titular goblins as they outwit humans through whimsical and often humorous scenarios. The stories are infused with playful dialogue and intricate scenarios that reflect on themes of intelligence, deception, and the nature of good versus evil, presenting a unique perspective on morality in a culturally rich context. The anonymity of the author invites intrigue surrounding the origins of "Twenty-Two Goblins," potentially originating from an oral storytelling tradition prevalent in medieval India. This context of written folklore, safeguarded and transcribed over generations, resonates with the cultural dynamics of its time—blending entertainment with philosophical discourse. The author deftly captures the essence of social norms and human folly through the goblins' antics, reflecting an intimate understanding of both the human condition and the vast Indian cultural heritage. "Twenty-Two Goblins" is not only a delightful exploration of folklore but also an essential study for those interested in the evolution of narrative form and moral philosophy in literature. Readers seeking a blend of humor, nuanced storytelling, and cultural insight will find themselves enchanted by each tale, making it a timeless contribution to the world of literary scholarship.
Audiobook details
Rating★★★ 3.4 (60)
Includes Goodreads
GenreFairy Tales and Folklore, Fantasy
Length4 hrs 8 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateSep 16, 2022
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Translated from the Sanskrit by Arthur William Ryder
21. The Prince's Elopement. Whose fault was the resulting death of his parents-in-law?
32. The Three Lovers who brought the Dead Girl to Life. Whose wife should she be?
43. The Parrot and the Thrush. Which are worse, men or women?
54. King Shudraka and Hero's Family. Which of the five deserves the most honour?
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65. The Brave Man, the Wise Man, and the Clever Man. To which should the girl be given?
76. The Girl who transposed the Heads of her Husband and Brother. Which combination of head and body is her husband?
87. The Mutual Services of King Fierce-lion and Prince Good. Which is the more deserving?
98. The Specialist in Food, the Specialist in Women, and the Specialist in Cotton. Which is the cleverest?
109. The Four Scientific Suitors. To which should the girl be given?
1110. The Three Delicate Wives of King Virtue-banner. Which is the most delicate?
1211. The King who won a Fairy as his Wife. Why did his counsellor's heart break?
1312. The Brahman who died because Poison from a Snake in the Claws of a Hawk fell into a Dish of Food given him by a Charitable Woman. Who is to blame for his death?
1413. The Girl who showed Great Devotion to the Thief. Did he weep or laugh?
1514. The Man who changed into a Woman at Will. Was his wife his or the other man's?
1615. The Fairy Prince Cloud-chariot and the Serpent Shell-crest. Which is the more self-sacrificing?
1716. The King who died for Love of his General's Wife; the General follows him in Death. Which is the more worthy?
1817. The Youth who went through the Proper Ceremonies. Why did he fail to win the magic spell?
1918. The Boy whom his Parents, the King, and the Giant conspired to Kill. Why did he laugh at the moment of death?
2019. The Man, his Wife, and her Lover, who all died for Love. Which was the most foolish?
2120. The Four Brothers who brought a Dead Lion to Life. Which is to blame when he kills them all?
2221. The Old Hermit who exchanged his Body for that of the Dead Boy. Why did he weep and dance?
2322. The Father and Son who married Daughter and Mother. What relation were their children?
24Conclusion
25FIRST GOBLIN
26SECOND GOBLIN
27THIRD GOBLIN
28FOURTH GOBLIN
29FIFTH GOBLIN
30SIXTH GOBLIN
31SEVENTH GOBLIN
32EIGHTH GOBLIN
33NINTH GOBLIN
34TENTH GOBLIN
35ELEVENTH GOBLIN
36TWELFTH GOBLIN
37THIRTEENTH GOBLIN
38FOURTEENTH GOBLIN
39FIFTEENTH GOBLIN
40SIXTEENTH GOBLIN
41SEVENTEENTH GOBLIN
42EIGHTEENTH GOBLIN
43NINETEENTH GOBLIN
44TWENTIETH GOBLIN
45TWENTY-FIRST GOBLIN
46TWENTY-SECOND GOBLIN
47CONCLUSION