The Young King

A Classic Literary Short Story of Power, Wealth, Conscience, and Moral Awakening

What would you do if the weight of a kingdom rested on your shoulders—and every jewel and crown hid the suffering of the innocent?

In Oscar Wilde’s "The Young King", a sixteen-year-old shepherd discovers he is heir to unimaginable wealth and power. At first, he marvels at the glittering treasures and opulent coronation robes—until three haunting dreams reveal the human cost of his future reign: weavers, miners, and pearl divers laboring in misery so that his kingdom may shine. Torn between luxury and conscience, he makes a courageous choice: rejecting riches, he dons a humble shepherd’s tunic and a crown of briers. Miraculously, his humility and compassion are rewarded, as divine forces honor his empathy and moral courage.

Wilde’s lyrical prose brings every vivid image and moral awakening to life, weaving a timeless fairy tale of beauty, conscience, and justice. Press play now—and witness a king who rules not by wealth, but by heart.

Public Domain (P)2026 Evergreen Classics Audio