CLASSIC EDITIONS: CHILDRENS STORIES BY OSCAR WILDE EBOOK
Oscar Wilde's Children's Stories
Oscar Wilde's children's stories are known for their enchanting narratives and profound moral lessons.
1. The Happy Prince
A gilded statue of a prince, once living a life of luxury, stands in a city. He now weeps over the city's suffering and enlists the help of a swallow to distribute his jewels to the poor. The swallow and the prince sacrifice everything, culminating in their deaths, leaving the town officials to dispose of their now worthless remains, though they are united in the afterlife for their selflessness.
2. The Nightingale and the Rose
A nightingale overhears a student lamenting his unrequited love, wishing for a red rose. The nightingale sacrifices herself to produce the rose with her blood. Despite her ultimate sacrifice, the student's love is spurned, and he dismisses both the rose and the nightingale's deed, underscoring the tale’s theme of the often unrecognized nature of true love and sacrifice.
3. The Selfish Giant
A giant who selfishly keeps his garden closed to children experiences perpetual winter. One day, children sneak in, bringing spring with them. Realizing his mistake, the giant welcomes them, and his garden blooms. The story ends with the giant’s peaceful death, emphasizing the power of love and generosity.
4. The Devoted Friend
This story explores the relationship between Little Hans and the wealthy Miller, Hugh. Hans helps Hugh with many tasks, believing in their friendship, but Hugh never reciprocates. The story ends tragically for Hans, highlighting the selfishness and exploitation in their relationship, offering a critique of such one-sided "friendships."
5. The Remarkable Rocket
A self-important rocket boasts of his greatness but never fulfils his purpose of lighting up the sky. He lands in a ditch, becomes wet, and never ignites. This story humorously yet poignantly illustrates the pitfalls of vanity and self-delusion.
6. The Young King
A young shepherd, suddenly made king, dreams of the suffering caused by his luxurious desires. On his coronation day, he rejects the lavish garments and wears his simple shepherd's clothes instead. His kingdom sees a miraculous change, reinforcing the virtues of humility and compassion.
7. The Birthday of the Infanta
A Spanish princess's birthday celebration features a dwarf who entertains her. When the dwarf sees his reflection and realizes he's been mocked, he dies of a broken heart. The princess, oblivious to the pain she has caused, continues celebrating, highlighting the cruelty of vanity and superficiality.
8. The Fisherman and His Soul
A fisherman falls in love with a mermaid and is willing to give up his soul to be with her. He successfully separates from his soul but later realizes the emptiness of a soulless existence. The story delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the essential nature of the soul.
9. The Star-Child
A beautiful child found by a poor couple becomes arrogant and cruel. After learning his true origins and suffering due to his actions, he repents. Eventually, his kindness restores his beauty and status. This tale underscores the themes of redemption and the transformative power of love and humility.
Oscar Wilde's stories are rich in moral and philosophical insights, making them timeless favourites that resonate with both children and adults.
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