Pinocchio

Pinocchio is a fictional character and the protagonist of Carlo Collodi's novel Le avventure di Pinocchio (The Adventures of Pinocchio). The work, first published in serial form in 1881–1882 and issued as a book in 1883, presents Pinocchio as a wooden puppet carved by the old Italian woodcarver Geppetto in the town of Collodi. In the story, Pinocchio dreams of becoming a real boy and must navigate a series of moral trials.

The tale follows Pinocchio’s misadventures as he learns about honesty, courage, and responsibility. He is guided by a Talking Cricket who acts as his conscience, and by a Blue Fairy who aids him at crucial moments. A defining motif is that Pinocchio’s nose grows longer whenever he tells a lie, a tangible consequence that underscores the moral lessons of the narrative. The narrative combines whimsical elements with a cautionary tone, emphasizing the importance of integrity and selflessness.

Legacy and adaptations: Pinocchio has become a prominent figure in children's literature and world folklore, with numerous adaptations across film, stage, and television. The best known modern depiction is Disney’s 1940 animated film, which introduced elements such as a talking conscience named Jiminy Cricket and a more upbeat portrayal of the Blue Fairy. The character has continued to appear in various media, often symbolizing the process of personal growth and the moral development of a child. The original story entered the public domain in many jurisdictions, enabling ongoing reinterpretation and retellings.