The Happy Prince, Oscar Wilde: Summary, Analysis & Themes

The story of "The Happy Prince" by Oscar Wilde revolves around an unusual bond between a deceased ruler and a compassionate bird. Once a wealthy and extravagant monarch, the Happy Prince is now immortalized as a magnificent statue in his city. Summary: The Happy Prince by Oscar Wilde The Sad Affair Despite being a lifeless statue, the Happy Prince bears the burden of witnessing the suffering of his townspeople, which deeply affects him. One day, a swallow, separated from its family and feeling lost, stumbles upon the statue. Moved by the sorrowful expression on the Prince's face, the swallow decides to stay. Prince's Regret and Plea The Prince opens up to the empathetic swallow, confessing his past life of luxury and disregard for the hardships of his subjects. Filled with remorse, he implores the bird to help him rectify his mistakes. The Prince suggests that the swallow should seek out those in need and distribute the precious ornaments adorning the statue to assi…