Oscar Wilde 
The Happy Prince, and Other Tales [EPUB ebook] 

Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was a luminary of Victorian literature, known for his sharp wit, flamboyant style, and brilliant dialogues. A poet, playwright, and author, he is perhaps best remembered for his novel ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray, ‘ his numerous short stories, and his enduring plays such as ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ and ‘An Ideal Husband.’ Born in Dublin, Ireland, Wilde excelled at Trinity College, Dublin, and later at Magdalen College, Oxford, where he became known for his involvement in the aesthetic and decadent movements. He worked as a journalist and essayist before transitioning to writing fiction. In his short story collection ‘The Happy Prince, and Other Tales’ (1888), Wilde combines elements of fantasy and social critique, offering both entertainment and moral enrichment, and showcasing his skillful use of language and allegory. Often acclaimed for the aestheticism he advocated, his works reflect the paradoxes and ironies of society, coupled with an underlying moral sensibility. Despite his literary successes, Wilde’s career declined after he was imprisoned for gross indecency, a consequence of the prevailing laws against homosexuality. His later works, including ‘De Profundis’ and ‘The Ballad of Reading Gaol’, were informed by his experiences of hardship and societal rejection. Wilde’s contribution to literature remains influential; his unique blend of satire, humor, and poignancy continues to be celebrated worldwide.