Here's why:
* Copyright Duration: The copyright term for works published before 1923 is generally in the public domain.
* Publication Date: "The Red Shoes" was first published in 1845, well before 1923.
This means that anyone can use the story without permission, including:
* Adapting it into other media (films, plays, etc.)
* Creating derivative works
* Publishing it without paying royalties
However, it is important to note that specific adaptations or translations of "The Red Shoes" might be protected by separate copyrights.