The Happy Prince And Other Stories characters

Appears from the start

A jeweled and gilded statue set high above a city. His sheltered human life gave him no knowledge of suffering, but as a statue he sees poverty all around him and asks the Swallow to distribute his ornaments to people in need.

Appears from the start

A migrating bird who has delayed his journey to Egypt. He shelters beneath the Happy Prince and reluctantly agrees to act as his messenger, carrying pieces of the statue across the city.

First appears in chapter 2

A bird who hears a Student mourning because he cannot find the red rose required to dance with the Professor's daughter. Taking his words about love seriously, she searches the garden for a way to help him.

First appears in chapter 2

A young scholar who believes that a red rose will win him a dance with the woman he admires. He speaks dramatically about love without knowing that another creature is acting on his complaint.

First appears in chapter 3

The owner of a garden that children enjoy while he is away. When he returns, he drives them out and builds a wall to reserve the place for himself; afterward, winter remains in the garden long beyond its season.

First appears in chapter 3

A very small child who cannot climb a tree when the other children return to the Giant's garden. Seeing his distress prompts the Giant to reconsider how he has treated them.

First appears in chapter 4

A poor gardener who values his flowers and trusts the wealthy Miller's claims of devoted friendship. He gives time and labor freely, expecting the mutual care that the Miller praises but does not practice.

Also known as Hugh

First appears in chapter 4

Little Hans's prosperous neighbor. He makes lofty statements about friendship while taking Hans's flowers and repeatedly demanding work, holding out the promise of a damaged wheelbarrow as proof of his generosity.

First appears in chapter 4

A bird who tells the Water-rat the story of Little Hans and the Miller as an example of the responsibilities of friendship.

First appears in chapter 5

A self-important firework prepared for a royal wedding. He regards himself as exceptionally sensitive and distinguished, talks over the other fireworks, and interprets disagreement as evidence of their inferiority.