The Princess and the Tiger

The Princess and the Tiger is by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The text describes the thick fog of an early autumnal morning that obscured the extensive courts which surrounded the Prince’s castle, with a cavalcade of huntsmen, consisting of horse and foot, already engaged in their early preparations for the field. The Prince recommended his wife to seek amusement in equestrian exercise, under the conduct of her Uncle Frederick, and commended her to the care of our trusty Honorio, who will act as her esquire.

In the text, a speaker called Honorio cries to a gracious lady to fly at once. The text says that a young attendant drew his pistol and, approaching the monster, fired; unfortunately, he missed his mark, the tiger leaped aside, the horse started, and the terrified beast pursued his course and followed the Princess. The text gives the verses Hear the Prophet’s song ascending From the cavern’s dark retreat, Whilst an Angel, earthward bending, Cheers his soul with accents sweet.