The Princess and the Fisherman
by Unknown · from Roumanian Fairy Tales
Adapted Version
Once, a princess lived. A fish man lived. They lived in a big kingdom.
A Fish man sold fish. He went to the palace. The Princess bought his fish. She gave him money. She was kind.
They saw each other. They liked each other. The Princess smiled. The Fish man smiled. They talked. They became friends.
The Princess gave him money. "Buy nice clothes," she said. He bought new clothes. He looked like a fine man. He came back. He looked handsome.
The Princess loved him. She asked, "Marry me?" He was happy. He said, "Yes." They were happy.
The King loved his daughter. He said, "Yes." They had a big wedding. It was a happy day.
They sat at the table. The Princess said a word. She said, "You are a Fish man." Not nice. She said it to people. The Fish man felt bad.
The Fish man was sad. He stood up. He walked away. He left the palace. He went far.
The Princess was sad. She missed her husband. She wanted him. She went to find him. She looked.
She walked far. She found him. He worked at a tavern. He did not talk. He was quiet.
The Princess spoke to him. He did not answer. He did not look. The Tavern Man saw this. He thought, 'She bothers him.' He was quiet.
The Princess made a promise. She said, "He will speak. Or I leave."
The Princess begged him. "Please speak," she said. He did not speak. One day passed. Two days passed. He was quiet.
The third day came. The Princess had to leave. She walked to the edge. The Fish man watched. He did not move. He was quiet.
She was almost gone. Then the Fish man spoke. He shouted, "Stop!" All looked. He spoke loudly.
He asked, "Say 'Fish man'?" Three times. She said, "No, never." "I will not say it." "I will not say that word."
He said, "She is my wife." He took her hand. They went home. They were happy. They lived well.
It is not nice to say mean words. It is good to be kind and respect all, always. The Princess and the Fish man learned to be kind and happy. They were always happy.
Original Story
The Princess and the Fisherman.
nce upon a time something happened. If it had not happened, it would not be told.
There was once a fisherman, neither very well off nor very poor, but he was young, with a mustache that curled fiercely at the ends, you know, and a fine-looking fellow. Whenever he passed the imperial palace, the emperor's daughter sent for him, bought his fish, and gave him ten times as much money as they were worth.
Our fisherman was spoiled by this wealth, and whenever he had nice fresh fish he took them to the palace; not a day passed that the princess did not buy fish if the fisherman went by.
One day, while paying for the fish, the princess pressed his hand, the fisherman blushed as red as a beet, and cast down his eyes, but first gave her one loving glance, for he had understood that she was willing he should do so.
Then he entered into conversation with her, and took good care not to say any thing stupid.
The next time the princess bought fish he began to talk about them at great length, and made her comprehend that he had understood her feelings, and that the fire of love which was consuming her burned no less hotly in his heart than in her own.
Another time he spoke still more freely, and the princess learned that he was unmarried; she was, besides, much pleased with his clever answers, and as he was very attractive the royal maiden finally fell in love with him. She gave him a purse filled with money to purchase handsome clothes, and told him to come back afterward and show himself to her.
After he had bought garments like those worn by gentlemen, he put them on and returned to the princess. She would scarcely have recognized him, for even his gait and bearing had become as stiff as a noble's.
At last, unable to repress the love that glowed in her heart, the emperor's daughter told him that she would marry him.
The fisherman did not know much, but he was aware that such a dainty morsel wasn't meant for his bill, and he could hardly believe what he heard with his ears and saw with his eyes; but when the princess assured him that she wasn't joking, he accepted her hand, though to tell the truth with many doubts and blushes.
The marriage did not exactly suit the emperor, but as he loved his daughter and she was her parents' only child, he yielded to her wishes. The princess gave the fisherman another purse filled with money, and told him to buy himself still handsomer clothes. When he returned, in garments that fairly glittered with gold, the royal maiden presented him to the emperor, and the monarch betrothed them to each other.
Ere long a magnificent imperial wedding was celebrated. When the company sat down to enjoy the banquet, a soft-boiled egg, which, according to ancient custom, only the bride and bridegroom were permitted to eat, was brought to the wedded pair. When the husband was about to dip a bit of bread into the egg, the princess stopped him, saying: "I must dip first, because I am the daughter of an emperor, and you are a fisherman." The bridegroom made no reply, but rose from the table and vanished. The guests, who did not know what had happened, looked at one another and asked in surprise what this meant, for they had not heard that the emperor's son-in-law had formerly been a fisherman.
The bride repented her imprudence, bit her lips, and wrung her hands. She ate what she was compelled to swallow, but she might just as well have thrown it behind her, for not a morsel did her any good.
After the feast she went to her room, but all night long she could not once close her eyes or fall asleep, she was so sorrowful. She thought of her bridegroom so constantly that she was afraid she would fall ill from longing. Her principal grief was that she did not know why he had gone away without saying even one word.
The next day she went to the emperor and told him she was seized with so great a longing for her husband that she was going to follow him till she found him. The emperor tried to detain her, but she would not listen and set out on her journey.
She searched up and down the whole city, but did not find him anywhere. Then she wandered from place to place till she met him serving in a tavern.
As soon as she saw him she went up and spoke to him, but he pretended not to know her, turned his head away, made no answer, and went about his business.
The princess followed him everywhere, begging him to say just one word to her, but in vain. When the landlord saw that the stranger was to blame for the interruption in the work, he said: "Why don't you let my servant finish his work in peace? Don't you see he is dumb? Be kind enough to go away from here, if you are a respectable woman."
"He isn't dumb," she cried, "this is my husband, who deserted and fled from me on account of a fault of mine."
All the people in the tavern stood still in astonishment when they heard her words, for she was not joking; but the landlord could not believe it, he thought it would be impossible for a man who could speak to live a whole week without saying even one word, and every body really knew him as a dumb man, made him understand by signs, and liked him for his industry.
The princess then entered into an agreement with them all, that she would induce him to speak within three days if they would only allow her to stay with him, but if she did not succeed she would be hung. This agreement was put in writing and shown to the magistrates for their sanction. When the contract was concluded, the three days' trial was arranged to begin the next morning.
The fisherman at first knew nothing about this agreement, though he heard of it afterward, but the emperor's daughter never left his side.
"My beloved husband," she said, "you know I am to blame. I chose you because I loved you; I swear that I will never commit such a blunder again; have pity on me, speak one word to me, save me from the disgrace that is killing me. I know you have a right to be angry, but for the sake of my love, forgive me."
The fisherman turned his head toward her, shrugged his shoulders, and pretended that he did not know her, and did not understand what she was talking about. One day, two days passed, and he did not even say boo. When the third came the princess was terribly frightened, and wherever the dumb man went she followed, beseeching him to say one word to her.
But the fisherman, feeling that she was softening him by her entreaties, fled like a savage that she might not assail him with tears, and pretended his heart was a lump of ice; but she did not cease imploring him a thousand times, so tenderly that it would have softened even a wild beast.
At last the third day also passed, and the fisherman had not even said baa.
Every body wondered over these things. Nothing was talked of in the whole city, except the mute servant at the tavern and the beautiful, charming girl, who, it was supposed, had mistaken the dumb man for some one else, and had now brought herself into trouble.
The next day the gallows was ready, and the whole population gathered around it to witness the end of the affair.
The magistrates were summoned to the place, and, against their will, compelled to execute what was in the agreement.
The executioner came, and called upon the princess to submit to the penalty, since she had not succeeded in fulfilling the obligations she had imposed upon herself; the girl turned once more to the fisherman, and, sobbing bitterly, tried to soften his heart, but in vain. When she saw and understood that no escape was possible, she loosed her hair and let it fall over her shoulders, wailing so piteously that it was enough to make even wood and stone weep for her, and so walked toward the place of execution. All the people, old and young, were weeping around her, yet could not help her.
On reaching the gallows, she once more gazed hopefully at the dumb man, who had come with the crowd, but stood as if he were perfectly unmoved, and said to him:
"My dear husband, save me from death; you know my love for you, do not let me perish so ignominiously. Speak but one word and I shall be delivered." But the man only shrugged his shoulders and glanced backward across the fields.
The executioner stood with the noose in his hand; two assistants led her up the ladder, and the hangman slipped the rope around her neck. One moment more, and the princess would have been a corpse! But just at the instant the executioner was going to let her swing out into the empty air, the fisherman raised his hand, shouting: "Hi! hi! stop!"
They all stood motionless, tears of joy streamed from every eye as the hangman took the noose from the prisoner's neck. Then the fisherman, looking at the royal maiden, said three times:
"Will you say fisherman to me again?"
"Forgive me, my dear husband," the princess hastened to reply, "I have only said it once, and that was by mistake. I promise you not to do so again."
"Let her come down, she is my wife."
He took her by the hand, and they went home together.
Afterward they lived in peace and happiness, and if they haven't died, they are living still.
Into the saddle then I sprung,
This tale to tell to old and young.
Story DNA
Moral
Pride can lead to great suffering, and true love requires mutual respect and humility.
Plot Summary
A princess falls in love with a fisherman and marries him, despite their social differences. At their wedding, she publicly humiliates him by calling him a 'fisherman,' causing him to silently abandon her. She searches for him, finding him pretending to be a mute servant, and makes a desperate wager to make him speak or face execution. At the gallows, moments before her death, the fisherman finally speaks, asking if she will ever repeat her insult. She promises not to, and they reconcile, living happily ever after.
Themes
Emotional Arc
love to suffering to triumph
Writing Style
Narrative Elements
Cultural Context
Reflects societal norms where class distinctions were rigid and public humiliation could be a severe offense, even within marriage.
Plot Beats (16)
- A young fisherman frequently sells fish to the emperor's daughter, who pays him generously.
- The princess and fisherman exchange loving glances and begin to converse, realizing their mutual affection.
- The princess gives the fisherman money to buy fine clothes, and he returns transformed into a gentleman.
- The princess confesses her love and proposes marriage, which the fisherman, though surprised, accepts.
- The emperor, loving his daughter, agrees to the marriage, and a magnificent wedding takes place.
- During the wedding banquet, the princess asserts her superior status by calling her new husband a 'fisherman' in front of guests.
- Humiliated, the fisherman silently rises and leaves the banquet, disappearing from the palace.
- The princess, filled with sorrow and longing, sets out to find her husband.
- She finds him working in a tavern, pretending to be a dumb servant.
- The princess tries to make him speak, but he ignores her, leading the landlord to believe she is bothering a mute.
- The princess makes a public wager that she can make him speak within three days, or she will be hanged.
- Despite her desperate pleas and the impending deadline, the fisherman remains silent for two days.
- On the third day, as she is being led to the gallows, the fisherman watches, seemingly unmoved.
- Just as the noose is placed around her neck, the fisherman shouts to stop the execution.
- He asks her three times if she will ever call him 'fisherman' again, and she promises never to repeat her mistake.
- The fisherman declares her his wife, they go home, and live happily ever after.
Characters
The Fisherman
A fine-looking young man with a sturdy build, accustomed to physical labor. His height is average for a young man of his time and region.
Attire: Initially, simple, practical fisherman's attire, likely coarse linen or wool tunic and trousers, possibly with a cap. Later, he wears 'garments like those worn by gentlemen,' suggesting tailored tunics, breeches, and a cloak of finer fabrics like wool or silk, perhaps in muted colors. Finally, he wears 'garments that fairly glittered with gold,' indicating luxurious, embroidered court attire, possibly a richly decorated kaftan or robe with golden threads.
Wants: Initially, to gain wealth and perhaps the princess's affection. After the wedding, his primary motivation is to teach the princess a lesson about respect and humility, and to ensure he is valued for himself, not just his new status.
Flaw: His pride and sensitivity to social slights. He is also somewhat naive about the complexities of royal life.
He transforms from a simple fisherman into a gentleman, then a prince, then a 'dumb' tavern servant, and finally reclaims his identity as the princess's husband, having taught her a crucial lesson. He learns the importance of self-respect and the power of his own will.
Proud, sensitive, observant, clever, and somewhat stubborn. He is initially flattered by the princess's attention but deeply wounded by her public slight. He is capable of great resolve and a dramatic test of character.
The Princess
The emperor's daughter, described as a 'royal maiden' and 'beautiful, charming girl.' She is likely of slender build, as is often depicted for princesses, and carries herself with an air of nobility. Her height is not specified but would be graceful.
Attire: Initially, she wears fine imperial palace attire, likely flowing silk robes or dresses in rich colors, possibly embroidered. For her wedding, she would wear a magnificent bridal gown, perhaps of white or red silk, adorned with jewels and gold embroidery, consistent with imperial tradition. When searching for her husband, she would wear more modest but still elegant traveling clothes, perhaps a simple but well-made dress and cloak, suitable for wandering but still indicating her noble status. For the execution, she wears her hair loose over her shoulders, implying a state of distress and resignation, likely still in her traveling attire.
Wants: Initially, to marry the man she loves. After her husband leaves, her primary motivation is to find him, win back his love, and rectify her mistake, driven by deep longing and regret.
Flaw: Her pride and a tendency to speak without thinking, particularly regarding social status. This flaw nearly costs her her life.
She transforms from a proud, somewhat thoughtless princess into a humbled, deeply loving, and understanding wife. She learns the value of respect and the consequences of pride, ultimately earning her husband's forgiveness and a happy marriage.
Impulsive, loving, proud, remorseful, determined, and ultimately humble. She is initially smitten and willing to defy convention for love, but her ingrained pride causes a significant rift. She shows immense determination in seeking her husband and enduring hardship.
The Emperor
A monarch, likely of dignified bearing and mature age, possibly elderly, given he has an only child who is a young adult. His build would be regal, perhaps slightly portly from a life of comfort, or lean and authoritative.
Attire: Rich imperial robes, likely of silk or brocade, in deep, regal colors such as gold, crimson, or purple, heavily embroidered with imperial symbols (e.g., dragons, phoenixes, or other culturally relevant motifs). He would wear a jeweled crown or elaborate headwear, and possibly a ceremonial sash or belt.
Wants: To ensure his daughter's happiness, despite his personal reservations about her choice of husband. To uphold imperial traditions and maintain order.
Flaw: His deep love for his only daughter, which makes him susceptible to her wishes, even when they go against his judgment or tradition.
He remains largely static, serving as a figure of authority and paternal love. His primary arc involves accepting his daughter's unconventional marriage choice.
Loving, yielding (to his daughter), traditional, and ultimately pragmatic. He loves his daughter deeply, which overrides his initial disapproval of her marriage choice. He is bound by custom and law.
The Tavern Landlord
A working man, likely of average height and build, perhaps a bit stout from his profession. His appearance would be practical and unpretentious.
Attire: Simple, sturdy working clothes, likely a linen shirt, leather apron, and trousers, in muted, earthy tones. His attire would be clean but worn, reflecting his trade.
Wants: To run his tavern efficiently and protect his employees from disruption.
Flaw: His inability to believe that his 'dumb' servant could actually speak, leading him to misjudge the situation.
A static character who serves to highlight the fisherman's deception and the princess's desperation.
Practical, observant, and somewhat skeptical. He values hard work and order in his establishment. He is kind to his 'dumb' servant.
The Executioner
A man of imposing presence, likely strong and tall, necessary for his profession. His build would be muscular or sturdy.
Attire: Dark, somber clothing, perhaps a heavy tunic and trousers of coarse wool or leather, possibly with a hood or mask (though not specified). His attire would be functional and intimidating, without ornamentation.
Wants: To fulfill his duties as mandated by the magistrates and the law.
Flaw: None explicitly shown, as he is a functional character.
A static character, serving as the ultimate threat and catalyst for the fisherman's intervention.
Impassive, professional, and bound by duty. He carries out his grim task without personal malice, but with unwavering resolve.
Locations
Imperial Palace
A grand and opulent residence, likely of a Southeast Asian emperor, where the princess resides. It features spaces for receiving guests, a banquet hall for a magnificent wedding, and private chambers for the princess.
Mood: Initially regal and somewhat formal, transitioning to romantic intrigue, then celebratory for the wedding, and finally sorrowful and reflective for the princess.
The fisherman sells fish to the princess, their love blossoms, they are betrothed and married here, and the fisherman abandons the princess after her slight.
Tavern
A bustling public house where the fisherman works as a 'dumb' servant. It's a place of common gathering, with a landlord and other patrons, and a lively, somewhat chaotic atmosphere.
Mood: Initially busy and ordinary, becoming tense and dramatic with the princess's arrival and her desperate pleas.
The princess finds the fisherman working here, tries to make him speak, and makes a desperate agreement with the landlord and magistrates.
Public Square with Gallows
A central public space in the city, where a gallows has been erected for the princess's execution. It is crowded with the entire population, witnessing the dramatic conclusion of her trial.
Mood: Tense, sorrowful, and dramatic, with a large crowd gathered in anticipation of a tragic event.
The princess is brought to the gallows for execution, and at the last moment, the fisherman speaks, saving her life.