The Lady Or The Tiger?: An Analysis of Relationships Between Characters Anonymous 8th Grade

As humans, the power of love often overpowers the responsibility of thought. In “The Lady, Or The Tiger,” by Frank Stockton, the strong affection that bonded the several characters into relationships drives them apart ending in a scene with two outcomes, a show of startling nobility, as well as a fatal fiasco. The story is about a king, with a semi-barbaric method of justice administration. The suspect is forced into an arena with two doors, one with a woman, one with a tiger. The ‘fair’ man in the arena was accused of a great offense, having a relationship with the king’s daughter. The daughter of the king is well aware where the tiger is, but is equally aware that the woman behind the door has feelings for the young gentleman. The story showcases a relevant theme in life, that our love deprives our mind of the ability to think properly. The style of the writing, specifically the constant suspense, is effective and was especially evident when the story ended with a cliffhanger.

The first time such a situation is shown is when the king puts the man on trial; failing to see through the veil of affection that he has for his daughter that the relationship between the two is mutually beneficial. “The love affair moved on happily...