The Happy Prince, And Other Tales

by Oscar Wilde

Overview

The Happy Prince, and Other Tales" is a collection of fairy tales and short stories written by Oscar Wilde and first published in 1888. The stories are renowned for their blend of whimsy, moral lessons, and poignant social commentary, showcasing Wilde's distinctive wit and storytelling process. The collection includes several fairy tales and short stories, each with its own unique characters and themes. Some of the notable stories in "The Happy Prince, and Other Tales" include: "The Happy Prince" The title story of the collection, which tells the tale of a statue of a prince who, in his lifetime, was shielded from the harsh realities of poverty and suffering. In death, the statue learns of the misery of the city's poor and enlists the help of a swallow to alleviate their suffering. "The Nightingale and the Rose" A story about a nightingale who sacrifices herself to create a red rose for a student to give to his beloved. The tale explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of idealism. "The Selfish Giant" A story about a giant who initially refuses to allow children to play in his garden, leading to perpetual winter. The giant learns the importance of kindness and generosity through the innocence of children. Oscar Wilde's writing in this collection is characterized by its lyrical prose, vivid imagery, and fairy tale motifs. He infuses each story with wit, irony, and moral lessons, creating a narrative style that appeals to both children and adults. The Happy Prince, and Other Tales" was well-received upon its publication and has since become a classic of children's literature. Wilde's ability to combine fantasy with moral allegory has ensured the collection's enduring popularity and its status as a literary masterpiece.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9789364285308
Publisher:	Double 9 Books
Publication date:	08/01/2024
Pages:	50
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.12(d)

About the Author

Oscar Wilde was born on October 16, 1854, in Dublin, Ireland, to Sir William Wilde, a renowned surgeon, and Jane Wilde, a poet and writer who wrote under the pseudonym ""Speranza."" Wilde grew up in a cultured and intellectual environment, surrounded by literature, art, and lively discussions. In the 1880s, Oscar Wilde emerged as one of London's most prominent playwrights and writers. Known for his wit, charm, and flamboyant style, he became a central figure in London's literary and social scene. Wilde's early works include poetry collections like ""Poems"" (1881) and his only novel, ""The Picture of Dorian Gray"" (1890), which initially sparked controversy due to its exploration of decadence and aestheticism. After his release from prison, Wilde lived in France under the name Sebastian Melmoth. He wrote ""The Ballad of Reading Gaol"" (1898), a poignant poem reflecting on his experiences in prison and the inhumanity of the penal system. Oscar Wilde died on November 30, 1900, at the age of 46, from meningitis, which was likely exacerbated by his time in prison. Despite his relatively short life, Wilde left a lasting legacy as one of the greatest playwrights and wits in the English language. His works continue to be studied, performed, and celebrated worldwide for their wit, social commentary, and exploration of aestheticism and human nature.

Date of Birth:

October 16, 1854

Date of Death:

November 30, 1900

Place of Birth:

Dublin, Ireland

Place of Death:

Paris, France

Education:

The Royal School in Enniskillen, Dublin, 1864; Trinity College, Dublin, 1871; Magdalen College, Oxford, England, 1874