The book also shows the words Le Prince Charmant or Prince Charming. The history of colored printing goes as far back as the 16th century, and there are illustrations from the early 1700s with an impressive variety of color that help establish a stronger time period. However, tobacco pipes have been around as long as Tobacco has been introduced to European trade, starting in the 16th century. I could place it to possibly be a Billiard type, but the exact era of creation escapes me. Belle’s excitement over the book is likely a sign that this is a new story.ĭuring the same musical number, we see a sign depicting a tobacco pipe, but unlike with the Calabash pipe from the Little Mermaid movie. Near as I could find, the only version with an ogre was written by Joseph Jacobs in 1890, making Belle nearly contemporary to modernity. But she also deliberately mentions an ogre, not a giant. She’s clearly describing Jack and the Beanstalk, the earliest version being the tale of “Jack Spriggins and the Enchanted Bean” in 1734.
So, it’s worth looking into the film to decide when the Movie is supposed to be set.ĭuring the opening musical number “Belle”, Belle is telling the Baker about the book she’s been reading. Beauty and the Beast features my favorite love story and my favorite Disney Princess, so it holds a very special spot in my heart.
