The Lady, or the Tiger?

Name: The Lady, or the Tiger?
Author: Frank R. Stockton

By Frank R. Stockton

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American Literature Short Stories

About This Book

A semi-barbaric ruler stages a public trial in which an accused person must choose between two identical doors: one hides a savage tiger that will kill him, the other conceals a suitable bride who will instantly marry him. When the lover of the ruler's daughter is condemned, the princess secretly discovers which door conceals which fate and confronts a tormenting choice between selfish jealousy and magnanimous love. The account focuses on the arena ritual, the lovers' predicament, and the princess's anguished decision, deliberately concluding without revealing the outcome and inviting reflection on justice, chance, and the conflict between civilized appearances and barbaric impulses.

About the Author

Frank R. Stockton

Frank R. Stockton was an American author and humorist known for his imaginative storytelling and whimsical narratives. He gained popularity in the late 19th century, contributing significantly to the genre of children's literature and short fiction. His works often blend fantasy with humor, as seen in notable titles such as "Kate Bonnet: The Romance of a Pirate's Daughter" and "A Bicycle of Cathay." Stockton's writing is characterized by its playful tone and inventive plots, making him a beloved figure in American literary heritage.