Introduction to The Princess Bride and S. Morgenstern
The Fictional Origin of S. Morgenstern
The story of The Princess Bride is unique in its presentation because William Goldman claims that he is translating and abridging the work of the fictional author S. Morgenstern. According to Goldman, Morgenstern’s original manuscript was overly verbose and filled with tangential stories, so Goldman selectively edited it to create a more engaging narrative. This layered storytelling adds a metafictional element to the novel, blending fact and fiction in a playful way.
Goldman’s framing device involves him explaining how he came across Morgenstern’s manuscript and why he chose to publish his own version. This approach not only adds humor and intrigue but also invites readers to question the nature of storytelling and authorship.
The Real William Goldman
William Goldman (1931–2018) was an acclaimed novelist and screenwriter, best known for his works in Hollywood as well as his literary achievements. His writing style in The Princess Bride combines wit, humor, and a deep understanding of storytelling mechanics. The book reflects his love for fairy tales and adventure stories, as well as his satirical commentary on romantic clichés.
Plot Summary of The Princess Bride
Overview of the Storyline
The Princess Bride is a fairy tale adventure centered around the love story of Westley and Buttercup, set in a fictional medieval kingdom. The narrative is divided into several distinct sections, including the romance between Westley and Buttercup, the kidnapping and rescue plots, and the eventual confrontation with the villainous Prince Humperdinck.
The story begins with Buttercup, a beautiful young woman, who falls in love with Westley, her farmhand. Their romance is interrupted when Westley leaves to seek his fortune, promising to return. When he does not, Buttercup believes him dead and becomes engaged to Prince Humperdinck, a ruthless ruler.
Westley's presumed death sets off a series of adventures involving pirates, kidnappings, and daring rescues. Westley reappears in disguise, leading a band of outlaws to confront the prince and save Buttercup from an unwanted marriage. Along the way, the story introduces memorable characters such as Inigo Montoya, the skilled swordsman seeking revenge, and Fezzik, the gentle giant.
Major Plot Points
- Buttercup’s love for Westley and her subsequent heartbreak
- Westley's daring escape from the Cliffs of Insanity
- The kidnapping by the Sicilian pirates and Westley's rescue
- Inigo Montoya’s quest to avenge his father’s murder
- Fezzik’s strength and loyalty
- Buttercup’s kidnapping and Westley's daring plan to rescue her
- The final confrontation with Prince Humperdinck and the evil Count Rugen
Themes and Messages in The Princess Bride
Love and True Courage
At its core, The Princess Bride explores the nature of true love—romantic, familial, and friendship-based—and the courage required to pursue it. Westley’s unwavering devotion to Buttercup exemplifies sacrificial love, while Inigo Montoya’s quest for revenge is driven by his love for his father’s memory.
Good vs. Evil
The novel portrays clear distinctions between good and evil, though with a satirical edge. Prince Humperdinck embodies greed and cruelty, while heroes like Westley, Inigo, and Fezzik represent loyalty, bravery, and kindness. Goldman’s commentary often questions traditional notions of heroism and villainy.
Perseverance and Resilience
Many characters face seemingly insurmountable obstacles, yet their perseverance leads to eventual victory. Inigo’s relentless pursuit of revenge, Westley’s resilience against betrayal, and Buttercup’s stubbornness all underscore the importance of steadfastness.
Characters of The Princess Bride
Main Characters
- Westley – The noble farmboy turned heroic adventurer, known as “The Dread Pirate Roberts.”
- Buttercup – The beautiful princess whose love story drives the plot.
- Prince Humperdinck – The main antagonist, a sinister ruler with ambitions of war and conquest.
- Inigo Montoya – The skilled swordsman seeking revenge for his father’s murder, famous for his line, “Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”
- Fezzik – The gentle giant with exceptional strength and a kind heart.
- Count Rugen – The evil scientist and right-hand man to Prince Humperdinck, responsible for Inigo’s father’s death.
- Vizzini – The clever but foolish Sicilian criminal mastermind.
- The Cliffs of Insanity guards and the villainous Sicilian pirates.
- Humperdinck’s soldiers and the albino assassin, the “Terror of Florin.”
Adaptations and Cultural Impact
The 1987 Film Adaptation
One of the most famous adaptations of The Princess Bride is the 1987 film directed by Rob Reiner, with a screenplay by William Goldman himself. The film has become a cult classic, celebrated for its humor, quotable lines, and faithful yet lively adaptation of the book.
Legacy and Influence
The novel’s popularity has endured over the years, inspiring stage productions, graphic novels, and numerous merchandise. Its themes of love, bravery, and perseverance resonate universally, making it a staple in popular culture.
Why Read The Princess Bride Today?
Readers today continue to find joy in Goldman’s witty narrative, layered storytelling, and memorable characters. The book appeals to both children and adults, offering a nostalgic escape into a world of adventure and romance that also encourages reflection on the nature of storytelling itself.
Conclusion
The princess bride book S. Morgenstern, as presented by William Goldman, is a masterful blend of fairy tale, satire, and adventure that has stood the test of time. Its rich characters, engaging plot, and universal themes make it a must-read for fans of literature that combines humor, heart, and heroism. Whether enjoyed as a book or through its beloved film adaptation, The Princess Bride remains a quintessential story about love, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is William Goldman in relation to The Princess Bride?
William Goldman is the author of the novel The Princess Bride, which is a fantasy adventure book published in 1973.
What is the significance of S. Morgenstern in The Princess Bride?
S. Morgenstern is presented as the fictional original author of the story within the book, with Goldman claiming to have abridged and retold Morgenstern's work, adding a layer of playful metafiction.
Is The Princess Bride based on a true story or a real book by S. Morgenstern?
No, The Princess Bride is a work of fiction written by William Goldman; the reference to S. Morgenstern is part of the book's fictional framing, suggesting it is a translation or adaptation of Morgenstern's supposed work.
How does the fictional S. Morgenstern influence the narrative of The Princess Bride?
The fictional S. Morgenstern serves as the supposed original author, and Goldman claims to have edited or abridged his work, which adds layers of storytelling and humor to the novel.
What themes from S. Morgenstern's supposed work are reflected in The Princess Bride?
Themes such as adventure, love, heroism, and humor are emphasized in Goldman’s retelling, which he attributes to Morgenstern’s original stories, blending parody and homage.
How does William Goldman portray S. Morgenstern's influence on the story’s style?
Goldman humorously suggests that Morgenstern's original work was lengthy and elaborate, and he has condensed it for modern readers, creating a playful narrative about storytelling and editing.
Why does William Goldman include the fictional S. Morgenstern in The Princess Bride?
Including S. Morgenstern adds a metafictional layer, allowing Goldman to parody and pay homage to classic adventure and fairy tale storytelling while engaging readers with a playful narrative device.
