The Princess and the Goblin · Chapter
The King and the Kiss explained
The king arrives at his house, grief-stricken over Irene's disappearance.
What happens
The king arrives at his house, grief-stricken over Irene's disappearance. Curdie carries Irene to the gate and reunites her with her father. Irene tells the story of her rescue, praising Curdie's bravery. She then reminds the king of a promised kiss from a previous adventure, and the king allows her to give it. A feast is held to celebrate.
Themes in this chapter
Courage vs. Fear
Curdie's bravery in rescuing Irene contrasts with the fear and grief of the king's household.
Family and Loyalty
The king's deep love for Irene and the loyalty of the household are central to the reunion.
Trust and Belief
Irene insists on keeping her promise to Curdie, demonstrating the value of trust and integrity.
Characters to notice
- Curdie
Carries Irene to the king, receives praise and a kiss from the princess.
- Princess Irene
Reunited with her father, tells the story of her rescue, and insists on keeping her promise to kiss Curdie.
- The King
Grief-stricken at Irene's disappearance, overjoyed at her return, and grants permission for the kiss.
- Lootie
Praises Curdie's courage; previously prevented Irene from giving Curdie a kiss.
- Mrs. Peterson
Curdie's mother, present at the reunion and praised by Irene.
- Sir Walter
Filled with shame over Irene's disappearance, adds to the praise of Curdie.
Key passages
“The king started. The colour rushed to his face. He gave an inarticulate cry. Curdie held up the princess, and the king bent down and took her from his arms. As he clasped her to his bosom, the big tears went dropping down his cheeks and his beard.”
The king was shocked and overjoyed when he saw Irene. He took her from Curdie and cried tears of relief as he held her close.
Highlights the emotional reunion between father and daughter.
“I don’t want you to scold Lootie, but I want you to tell her that a princess must do as she promises.”
Irene asks her father not to punish Lootie but to teach her that a princess must keep her promises.
Shows Irene's sense of justice and commitment to her word.