The Devoted Friend, Oscar Wilde: Summary & Analysis
'The Devoted Friend' by Oscar Wilde is a captivating fairy tale intended for children and was first published in the collection "The Happy Prince and Other Tales" in 1888. The story delves into the deceptive nature of friendship, focusing on the exploitative relationship between a Miller named Hugh and his supposed friend Hans. Plot Summary The structure of 'The Devoted Friend' follows a frame story format, where a character within the tale narrates the story to another character. In this instance, a Linnet recounts the events to the Water-rat, revealing the dynamics between two friends. The tale introduces the honest man named Hans and the Miller named Hugh, who initially appear to be close companions. However, it becomes increasingly apparent that Hugh's professed devotion to Hans is nothing more than a facade. Instead of being a true friend, Hugh manipulates Hans by constantly demanding favors from him without offering anything in return. Hugh takes advant…