Question

In the short story "The Lady, or the Tiger?" by Frank R. Stockton, the author leaves the outcome of what came out of the arena door to the reader's imagination. The story concludes with a choice, and the author never explicitly reveals whether it was the lady or the tiger. Considering the evidence provided in the text, which outcome do you believe is best supported by the story, and why?

A) It was the lady who came out of the door.
B) It was the tiger that came out of the door.

Answer 1

The ending of 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' is often interpreted as the tiger being the outcome due to the princess's jealousy and the thematic elements related to the dark side of human nature.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the short story "The Lady, or the Tiger?" by Frank R. Stockton, the author intentionally leaves the ending ambiguous to stimulate the reader's imagination. However, many readers, considering the evidence throughout the text, feel that the outcome with the tiger coming out of the arena door is more likely.

This interpretation stems from the jealous nature of the princess and her conflicted emotions regarding her lover and the lady who would marry him if chosen. Furthermore, it explores human nature's dark complexities and the brutal choices that can arise from love and jealousy. Therefore, this ending has a more profound impact and is supported by the psychological elements presented in the story.