The Happy Prince

Think about it

1. Why do the courtiers call the prince ‘the Happy Prince’? Is he really happy? What does he see all around him?

The prince was once called 'the Happy Prince' as he lived in a palace untouched by sorrow. But in death, as a statue overlooking the city's hardship, he knew no happiness.

2. Why does the Happy Prince send a ruby for the seamstress? What does the swallow do in the seamstress’ house?

The Happy Prince, as he wanted  to help the poor seamstress and her sick son, sent a ruby through a kind swallow. Finding them in distress, the swallow placed the ruby by her side, comforted the feverish boy, and brought him peaceful sleep.

3. For whom does the prince send the sapphires and why?

The generous Happy Prince sent one of his sapphire eyes to a freezing writer, helping him buy firewood to finish his play. He sent the other to a distressed matchgirl, saving her from a beating after her matches were ruined.

4. What does the swallow see when it flies over the city?

As the swallow soars over the city, it notices rich people enjoying themselves in grand homes, while beggars sit sadly by the gates. In the dark alleys, starving children gaze out at gloomy streets.

5. Why did the swallow not leave the prince and go to Egypt?

The loyal swallow chose to stay with the blind prince instead of going to Egypt. The prince's selfless generosity had deeply moved the bird's heart.

6. What are the precious things mentioned in the story? Why are they precious?

In the story, the Happy Prince's leaden heart and the dead bird became precious due to their extraordinary kindness. The prince gave away his treasures, even his sapphire eyes, to help the needy. The bird sacrificed its Egypt journey to help the prince, eventually giving its life. These selfless acts were considered most precious by God, who placed the bird in Paradise to sing eternally and the Happy Prince in a golden city to praise Him.