The Princess and Curdie · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Princess and Curdie by George MacDonald.

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Chapter 1
The Mountain
This chapter introduces Curdie, the son of a miner, and describes the awe-inspiring nature of mountains. It recounts how Curdie's bravery defeated the goblins and saved Princess Irene, leading the king to offer him a place in his train. Curdie chooses to stay with his parents, a decision the king admires. The chapter also reflects on the miners' work and the king's righteous use of silver.
Chapter 2
II: The White Pigeon
Curdie, growing older and more skeptical, has become less attentive to the wonders of the upper world. One evening, he shoots a white pigeon with his arrow, but as it lies wounded in his hands, its gaze fills him with remorse. He remembers the white pigeon that flew from the grandmother's lamp when the princess left, and fears he has killed that very bird. As darkness falls, a great globe of light shines from above the castle, and the pigeon flutters, prompting Curdie to run with it toward the castle, hoping it is not dead.
Chapter 3
III: The Mistress of the Silver Moon
Curdie enters the castle through the open front door and navigates the winding stairs by visualizing the building's exterior. He reaches the tower room where the old princess (the great-great-grandmother) sits spinning in the moonlight. He confesses to shooting her white pigeon, and she gently rebukes him, teaching him about the importance of meaning good and the danger of acting without knowledge. Through her spinning wheel's song, Curdie realizes he has been doing wrong all day and begins to understand the lesson.
Chapter 4
IV: Curdie’s Father and Mother
Curdie returns home to his parents, who immediately sense a change in him. After supper, he shares the story of his encounter with the old princess and the white pigeon. His parents advise him to follow the old lady's instructions, reminding him of his promise and the importance of obedience. They reassure him that his experience, whether dream or reality, has made him a better son, and he resolves to do as he was told.
Chapter 5
V: The Miners
In the mine, Curdie and his father Peter listen to the miners exchange superstitious tales about Old Mother Wotherwop, a witch-like figure blamed for various misfortunes. Peter questions their assumptions, suggesting she might be an angel in disguise, but the men dismiss him. Curdie remains silent, then defends the idea that the tales might have good in them, drawing mockery. He keeps his temper, and he and Peter walk home alone.

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The Mountain

II: The White Pigeon

III: The Mistress of the Silver Moon

IV: Curdie’s Father and Mother

V: The Miners