The Happy Prince, Oscar Wilde
The Happy Prince, Oscar Wilde
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The Happy Prince

Author: Oscar Wilde

Narrator: Geoffrey Giuliano, The Circle

Unabridged: 2 hr 16 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Published: 04/09/2024


Synopsis

"The Happy Prince" is a short story written by Oscar Wilde, first published in 1888 as part of a collection of fairy tales for children. The story is known for its poignant themes, allegorical elements, and a touching exploration of selflessness and compassion. The narrative is set in a city where a majestic statue of a once-wealthy and indulgent prince stands. The statue is now referred to as "The Happy Prince" due to its radiant and bejeweled appearance. From his elevated vantage point, the Happy Prince observes the suffering and poverty in the city.
One day, a swallow, delayed on its way to Egypt, takes shelter at the feet of the Happy Prince. The swallow learns about the prince's background and the sorrow he feels for the people in the city. Inspired by compassion, the Happy Prince asks the swallow to help those in need. The Happy Prince begins to sacrifice his own precious jewels and gold leaf to alleviate the suffering of the city's poor. As winter approaches, the swallow remains with the Happy Prince, selflessly carrying out the prince's requests to distribute his treasures to the needy. The swallow, however, succumbs to the harsh winter conditions, dying at the feet of the Happy Prince.
In the end, the city's mayor and a councilor, seeing the now "shabby" statue and the dead swallow, decide to melt the statue down and discard the bird. Yet, as the lead heart of the Happy Prince is thrown into the fire, a strange sound emanates, heard by angels. The story concludes with an angel taking the leaden heart and the swallow's soul to a place where love and sacrifice are valued.
"The Happy Prince" is a poignant tale that explores themes of sacrifice, compassion, and the contrast between material wealth and spiritual richness.

About Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde was born in Dublin on October 16, 1854. He excelled at Trinity College in Dublin from 1871 to 1874, eventually winning a scholarship to Magdalene College in Oxford, which he entered in 1875. The biggest influences on his development as an artist at this time were Swinburne, Walter Pater, and John Ruskin.

In 1875, Wilde began publishing poetry in literary magazines. In 1876 he found himself back in Ireland when the death of his father left the family with several debts. Wilde continued writing poetry in earnest, and in 1878, he won the coveted Newdigate Prize for English poetry. He soon left Oxford to build himself a reputation among the literati in London.

During the 1880s, Wilde established himself as a writer, poet, and lecturer, but above all as a "professor of aesthetics." In 1884, he married Constance Lloyd in London. Sons soon followed: Cyril in 1885 and Vyvyan in 1886. During these years, Wilde worked as a journalist and reviewer, while also continuing with his other writing of poetry and plays. In 1890 he published his well-known story The Picture of Dorian Gray. The early 1890s were the most intellectually productive and fruitful time for Wilde. Some of his most familiar plays-including Lady Windemere's Fan and Salome-were written and performed upon the London stages. In 1893 Wilde produced A Woman of No Importance and An Ideal Husband, followed in 1894 by The Importance of Being Earnest.

Wilde's life took a turn for the worst when, in May 1895, he was convicted of engaging in homosexual acts, which were then illegal, and sentenced to two years imprisonment with hard labor. He soon declared bankruptcy, and his property was auctioned off. In 1896, Wilde lost legal custody of his children. When his mother died that same year, his wife Constance visited him at the jail to bring him the news. It was the last time they saw each other. In the years after his release, Wilde's health deteriorated. In November 1900, he died in Paris at the age of forty-six.


Reviews

Goodreads review by Ahmed on September 24, 2017

There is no Mystery so great as MiseryStories like this are the reason I still love Classic short stories. I loved the concept. But again, this story has a bitter-sweet ending. Like it's the rule of classic literature to not give happy endings. I understand, I really do, that they just show real......more

Goodreads review by Francesc on January 01, 2021

Fábula que trata temas como el uso de la riqueza, el amor, la corrupción política, entre muchos otros. En pocas palabras, Wilde dice mucho. Me ha sobrado el abordaje final tan religioso, pero entiendo las circunstancias del momento. Fable that deals with topics such as the use of wealth, love, politi......more

Goodreads review by Imme [back from hiatus!] on March 05, 2025

|| 3.5 stars || This story is about a statue and a bird, who try to save the poor and hungry beggars in their city by providing them with money for food and to live out their dreams. Unfortunately, the statue and bird don’t receive that same kindness back from others, as they they both meet an unhapp......more

Goodreads review by NickReads on August 17, 2019

Such a heartwarming story. Simple yet so powerful. A tale of friendship and love. It is a bit about dying but much more about being alive.......more

Goodreads review by Jon on February 27, 2017

There is a sadness that permeates all of Oscar Wilde's work...but it is a sadness that helps us find joy with who we are. This story is one of my favorites; a beautiful tale for children.......more