Eastern Tales by Many Story Tellers

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26358

Title

Eastern Tales by Many Story Tellers

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A captivating collection of Eastern tales compiled for youthful readers, blending ancient and modern folklore from French, Italian, and English sources. Featuring stories of magic, adventure, and moral lessons, this volume offers a rich variety of styles and subjects, inviting readers into a world of enchantment and wisdom.

Summary up to 500 words

Compiled and edited by Mrs. Valentine, *Eastern Tales by Many Story Tellers* presents a diverse collection of narratives drawn from ancient and modern French, Italian, and English sources, specifically curated for youthful readers. The anthology explores profound themes of fate, the corrupting nature of vice, the necessity of integrity, and the ultimate triumph of truth and love. The collection opens with the tale of Jalaladdeen of Bagdad, a frugal youth who inherits hidden wealth from his dying father. Despite his father's strict instructions to practice self-denial and avoid superfluities, Jalaladdeen succumbs to temptation after joining a lavish, wine-fueled fellowship. His gradual descent into excess leads to financial ruin and a life of revelry, serving as a cautionary illustration of the dangers of abandoning moderation and religious tenets. Another narrative follows Kaskas, an honest merchant whose possession of pearls is mistaken for theft by a biased judge. Following a robbery on the road where he loses some of his cargo, Kaskas is unjustly imprisoned for a year. His innocence is eventually vindicated by a loyal diver who appeals to the King, resulting in Kaskas's release and the punishment of the corrupt officials. However, Kaskas's story takes a tragic turn when his curiosity leads him to force open a hidden door in the palace, causing him to be condemned to blindness for his ingratitude. The anthology also recounts the tragic history of Illage Mahomet, a merchant who loses his family at sea. This sets the stage for the adventures of Smaragdine, a woman who assumes the throne after her husband's death. Ruling with wisdom and justice, Smaragdine utilizes a magical tablet to expose liars and thieves during public feasts held for her subjects. Through these trials, she demonstrates her sagacity and rectitude. The story culminates in the emotional reunion of Smaragdine with her lost husband, Alischar, who had wandered the world seeking her. Upon finding him, she renounces her disguise and the burdens of sovereignty to return to a life of love and peace with her husband. Through these varied tales, the volume emphasizes that while fortune may fluctuate, integrity and truth ultimately prevail over adversity and injustice.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Tales