Final answer:
The paragraph about the Grimm Brothers aims to inform readers about their literary and patriotic efforts, the use of rhetorical devices in their tales, and their part in the broad Romantic nationalist movement. It also explains their contribution to safeguarding German heritage and sets the stage for deeper analysis of the text's themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author's purpose in writing the paragraph about the Grimm Brothers in “How the Grimm Brothers Saved the Fairy Tale” is primarily to inform readers about the historical and cultural significance of the Grimm Brothers' work. It highlights the importance of their contributions to the preservation of German folk tales and also their patriotic aspirations of capturing the German spirit through their philological endeavors. Additionally, the paragraph touches upon the theme that is shaped by the conflict experienced by the characters, such as Mark Twain's self-doubt in the face of increasing pressure. The role of the trickster, a common rhetorical device, helps engage the audience and adds depth to the narrative being discussed.
Through references to the Grimm Brothers' project of a comprehensive German dictionary and the popularity of their fairy tales, the reader can understand the impact of their work. The author explicates that their efforts were more than just collecting stories; they were a part of a broader Romantic nationalist movement that believed in preserving the essence of what it meant to be German. This is shown through the Grimm Brothers' intent to capture the cultural and linguistic heritage of Germany.
By detailing the linkage between the Grimm Brothers' patriotism and their work, the paragraph illustrates how these stories were a means to an end for their nationalist projects. Moreover, the paragraph strives to explain the significance of the colors white, grey, and green in the symbolism of the text, which ties back to the larger discussion of setting and themes and the author's thesis, providing a springboard for further literary analysis.