Thesis: In The Toad, Andersen employs a multitude of creatures to illustrate that beauty and truth are matters of perspective, and humanity is no more equipped than a frog to actually see the brilliance of God’s work.

Outline

1. Introduction
2. The toads and the frogs as feuding populations and symbols of humanity
1. The pride of the toads, the envy of the frogs
2. The temptation of the forbidden
3. The young toad’s journey
1. Wonder and terror encountered
2. Perspectives from other creatures
4. The longing transplanted, and another journey by another creature
1. The action of the stork, and the urgent need to explore
2. The highest form of life, man, and his similar folly
5. The author’s coda: an admonition to mankind
6. Conclusion