two doorways with an elegant woman standing in one and a large tiger head in the other

The Lady, or the Tiger?

by Francis Richard Stockton

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Topics for Discussion

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1. Explore the idea of religious predestination versus free will as it pertains to the characters of the king, the lover, and the princess in "The Lady or the Tiger?"

2. The fairy-tale kingdom in "The Lady or the Tiger?" is labeled as "semibarbaric." What actions would you classify as barbaric? Are there situations where being barbaric is acceptable?

3. Provide examples of other famous "cliff-hangers" in literature, film, or television. What elements make this style of ending particularly fulfilling or dissatisfying?

4. When the prince opens the door indicated by the princess "without the slightest hesitation," can the reader be entirely sure that he believes the lady is behind that door?

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