Structure

The short story “The Happy Prince” by Oscar Wilde has a linear plot structure. 

The story appears to be an allegory about the value of self-sacrifice and charity. There are also several elements which make it resemble a fairy tale, such as the format of three tasks assigned by one of the main characters and carried out by another main character. However, the story also reads like a satire on the hypocrisy and injustice of society.  

The narrative begins with a short description of the Happy Prince. We first see him through the eyes of the townsfolk as beautiful and carefree. However, these expectations turn out to be false. The Happy Prince is actually quite miserable, and he gradually loses his riches until he becomes “shabby”. 

There are several examples of foreshadowing in the story. An example of foreshadowing ...