Grusliche Geschichten c. 19th century

Curator: This is an illustration entitled "Grusliche Geschichten" by an anonymous artist, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Immediately, I’m drawn to the faces—a mix of rapt attention and maybe a little fear. It feels intimate, like peering into a private world. Curator: It's interesting to consider how the image’s setting—likely domestic—shapes our understanding of storytelling in society, how stories can convey moral lessons, reinforce cultural norms, and provide comfort. Editor: Absolutely! The grandmother figure seems central, almost like a stage director. And the children, nestled close, are completely under her spell. It’s pure narrative magic. Curator: The domestic setting provides a safe space for children to experience these narratives. Editor: I guess I hadn't thought about it that way before, but it puts me in mind of my childhood and the stories my grandmother shared with me. Curator: This image invites us to consider the role of storytelling, especially during childhood. Editor: Yes, stories are one of the original kinds of immersive experiences.