In six pages the many interpretations of Wilde's Happy Prince resulting from the symbolism and myriad of morals featured within are analyzed. There are no other sources listed.
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which there are likely a variety of interpretations. The protagonist is evaluated. No additional sources cited. SA126HP.rtf The Happy Prince is an odd tale, but contains
a great deal of symbolism. The protagonist is the prince himself, as the tale is sparse in terms of characterization. The prince and the swallow are the two characters that
provide this story-immersed with tragedy and sadness-a great deal of meaning. It provides one with a basis of learning about humanity. Much comes from the plot, but a great deal
comes from the characterization of the prince. The story begins as follows: HIGH above the city, on a tall column, stood the statue of the Happy Prince. He
was gilded all over with thin leaves of fine gold, for eyes he had two bright sapphires, and a large red ruby glowed on his sword-hilt (Wilde PG). Children would
comment that the happy prince looked like an angel and when queried as to how they would know what an angel looked like anyway, they would reply that they knew
so due to their dreams. This explanation gives the premise that the prince was an angel some credibility. In any event, as the story unfolds, a swallow comes along and
wonders why the statue is crying. Why, when this prince is so happy does he cry after death? The gist of the explanation comes from the idea that he was
prevented from seeing reality. In other words, when the prince was alive and happy it was because he did not know any better. That is a rather dismal portrait painted
by the author. It is as if the only way anyone can be happy is to live with blinders on or to not see reality. Is the author really trying