History and tradition are also common themes. Some stories might be based on old German legends about knights and their quests. At the end of the day, these knights return to their castles to rest. And of course, there's the theme of rest itself. The stories usually lead to the characters settling down for a good night, whether it's in a simple cottage or a grand palace, which gives a sense of peace and calm to the listener.
One of the common themes is magic. There are often magical elements such as a magic flute that can put people to sleep or a magic spell that protects a village at night. Also, kindness and helpfulness are themes. Characters in the stories are usually kind to one another, like a woodcutter who helps a lost child find their way home before nightfall, and then goes home to have a good night's sleep.
One common theme is the supernatural. For example, in stories like 'The Sandman', there are otherworldly beings causing fear. Another theme is the dark side of human nature, as seen in tales where characters make bad decisions or pacts, like in 'Faust'. Madness is also a theme, where the characters' minds are affected by the horror around them.
Ghosts are a common theme. Many German stories feature haunted castles or houses where the spirits of the dead roam. Another theme is the supernatural, like witches and warlocks who use dark magic to cause trouble. Revenge is also often seen, for example, a wronged spirit coming back to take revenge on those who wronged them during their lifetime.
Magic is a very common theme. For example, in 'The Nutcracker', there is the magic of the toys coming to life. Another common theme is good versus evil, like in 'Faust' where Faust battles with the devil. Also, nature often plays a role. In stories like 'Snow - White and Rose - Red', the forest is an important setting that is full of both beauty and danger.
One common theme is revenge. Many German ghost stories feature ghosts who are seeking revenge for some wrong done to them in life, like being wrongly accused or murdered.
Well, revenge is sometimes a theme. For example, if someone in the past was wronged in a village, their spirit might come back to haunt the place, especially targeting children. It's a way of teaching kids about the consequences of bad actions. Also, the theme of getting lost in an unknown and dangerous place is quite common. It could be a dark alleyway in a town or a deep part of the forest. This makes kids aware of the importance of staying in safe areas. And the concept of things not being as they seem, like a friendly - looking old woman who turns out to be a witch, is also a frequent theme.
One common theme is sacrifice. The soldier may have to sacrifice his relationship for the sake of his duty in war. Another theme is longing. Being away from their loved ones, they constantly long for their presence. For example, in a story, a German soldier might long for his sweetheart back home while facing the perils of the battlefield.
One common theme is the power of good over evil. For example, in many stories, the hero or heroine overcomes a wicked witch or a cruel giant.
One common theme is the forest. Many German scary kids stories are set in the forest, like 'Hansel and Gretel'. The forest represents the unknown and danger. Another theme is magic and the supernatural. For example, in 'Rumpelstiltskin', there's a magical creature with strange powers. Also, the theme of trickery often appears. In stories like 'The Pied Piper of Hamelin', the piper tricks the townspeople.
One common theme is the idea of judgment. Just like in the story of the Belsnickel, there is a sense of characters being judged for their behavior during the Christmas season. Good behavior is rewarded, and bad behavior is punished.
One common theme is the supernatural. Ghosts, witches, and haunted places often appear. For example, in many stories, there are haunted houses or forests where strange things occur. Another theme is the danger that children face, whether it's from an evil entity or from getting lost in a spooky place. This reflects the fears that children might have in real life.