My Grandmother Ironed the King's Shirts

This animated film is from Oscar®-winning Torill Kove. It's a tall tale about her grandmother's life in Oslo, Norway, during World War II. Sharp and whimsical, her story combines her grandmother's tales with historical events and fantasy, showing how a cherished anecdote can come to acquire a mythical status. King Harald of Norway said, "I love the irony of this short."

Grade 7 - 12

English Language Arts / Children's Stories/Fables

Civics/Citizenship / Citizen Responsibilities

History / World War II

Teaching Guides

Guide 1

Educational purpose:

Relate story to historical accounts of Nazi resistance in Norway. (See also the film: Through My Thick Glasses) Why did the woman feel so proud of her work? Is it possible to make a difference through such non-violent acts? Create a list of things people can do to support big causes in small ways. Ask students whether everything in the story is true. What is a tall tale? Brainstorm ideas about everyday adventures that could be turned into tall tales and have students write their own.


 

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