E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Undine’ (2 syl.).
The water-nymph, who was created without a soul, like all others of her species. By marrying a mortal she obtained a soul, and with it all the pains and penalties of the human race. (La Motte Fouqué: Undine.)
1
Founded on a tale told by Paracelsus in his Treatise on Elemental Sprites. (See FAIRY, SYLPHS.)
Founded on a tale told by Paracelsus in his Treatise on Elemental Sprites. (See F
