The Prince and the Pauper

Setting

• Time: Long ago during King Henry VIII's reign over London
• Characters: Two boys, Prince Edward and Tom Canty (a pauper)

Key Events

• Both boys are born on the same day; one in a palace and the other to a poor family.
• Tom Canty lives in poverty and is forced by his father to beg.
• Professor Andrews gives Tom books to read, encouraging him to aspire beyond his current situation.
• Tom and Prince Edward meet by chance at the palace.
• They discover they look very similar and decide to swap clothes to test people’s reactions.
• Prince Edward is mistaken for a pauper and thrown out of the palace.
• Tom, now dressed as Edward, is assumed to be the prince.

Major Themes

• Identity and social class: The story explores how clothing and appearances influence perception and treatment.
• Choices and destiny: Tom is told he can choose what kind of person to be, regardless of his birth status.
• Friendship and loyalty: Tom remains loyal to Prince Edward, ensuring the kingdom is well managed in his absence.

Resolution

• King Henry VIII dies, and Tom is almost crowned as the new king.
• Prince Edward returns just in time to prevent the coronation.
• The real prince is recognized after showing the Great Seal of England.
• Tom is commended for his honesty and is appointed as the prince's advisor.

Happy Prince

Setting

• Heaven and Earth
• Main Characters: The Happy Prince statue, a Swallow, God, and two servants

Key Events

• The Happy Prince statue, once a real prince, is covered in gold, sapphires, and a ruby.
• The statue sees the suffering of people in the city and cries.
• A swallow takes refuge at the statue and, upon hearing its story, helps distribute its valuables to those in need.
• The swallow and the statue develop a bond and together help alleviate suffering in the city.

Major Themes

• Compassion and sacrifice: The prince gives away his eyes and gold to help others.
• Poverty and wealth disparity: The story highlights the stark differences between the rich and the poor.
• Selflessness: The swallow sacrifices its journey to a warmer climate to stay with the prince.

Resolution

• The statue is dismantled by city officials after it loses its luster.
• The broken heart of the statue and the dead swallow are taken to heaven.
• God acknowledges these as the two best things from the city and places them in His garden.