Behram and Eddetma by Madison Cawein
Eddetma, a fierce and skilled warrior princess, has established herself as a formidable opponent in martial contests, declaring that she will only marry a man who can defeat her in battle. Many princes have attempted to win her hand, but all have failed, leaving them humiliated. Behram, a prince from Persia, hears of her prowess and travels to challenge her, bringing gifts to her father. The king, recognizing Eddetma's vow, informs Behram that he must prove himself in combat. The two meet in the lists, where Eddetma, clad in armor, faces Behram. Initially hesitant due to his feelings for her, Behram ultimately engages in the duel. Despite his strength, he is defeated by Eddetma, who disarms him and brands him with the mark of her conquest. Behram is left in a state of shock and humiliation, contemplating his defeat for several days. On the seventh day, he resolves to win Eddetma's respect and love. Meanwhile, Eddetma enjoys leisure with her handmaidens, mocking the idea of marriage. An ancient man, adorned with jewels, approaches her, and she learns he seeks a bride. Amused, she decides to play a trick on him, disguising herself as a common maid to engage with him. The old man, recognizing her, is overjoyed and proposes marriage. Eddetma, still in disguise, accepts, and as they kiss, the old man's age falls away, revealing a youthful and powerful figure. In this transformation, Eddetma sees the branded brow of Behram, igniting her desire to reclaim her honor and confront her feelings for him. The narrative explores themes of pride, identity, and the complexities of love intertwined with martial valor.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1903 · Genre: Epic Poetry, Romantic Literature, Heroic Fantasy · 2,029 words
First lines
Against each prince now she had held her own, An easy victor for the seven years O'er kings and sons of kings; Eddetma, she Who, when much sought in marriage, hating men, Espoused their ways to win beyond their worth Through martial exercise and hero deeds: She, who accomplished in all warlike arts, Let cry through every kingdom of the kings: -- "Eddetma weds with none but him who proves Himself her master in the push of arms, Her suitor's foeman she. And he who fails, So overcome of woman, woman-scorned, Disarmed, dishonored, yet shall he depart, Brow-bearing, forehead-stigmatized with fire, 'Behold, a freedman of Eddetma this. ' Let cry, and many princes put to shame, Pretentious courtiers small in thew and thigh, Proud-palanquined from principalities Of Irak and of Hind and farther Sind. Though she was queenly as that Empress of The proud Amalekites, Tedmureh, and More beautiful, yet she had held her own.
What this Textopian page supports
Behram and Eddetma is listed on Textopian as a short story by Madison Cawein, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Madison Cawein
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Epic Poetry, Romantic Literature, Heroic Fantasy, Mythological Fiction, Historical Fiction
- Length: 2,029 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Behram and Eddetma by Madison Cawein
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Behram and Eddetma?
- How does this short story by Madison Cawein fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Epic Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Epic Poetry — The poem features grand themes of love, honor, and combat, characteristic of epic narratives.
- Romantic Literature — The central plot revolves around romantic rivalry and the dynamics of love between Eddetma and Behram.
- Heroic Fantasy — The story includes elements of fantasy with heroic characters engaged in battles and quests.
- Mythological Fiction — The characters and themes draw on mythological elements, particularly in their portrayal of strength and honor.
Tags
Fantasy · Adventure · Romance · Mythology · Fiction · Literary Fiction · Classic Literature · 19th Century Literature · American Literature · Poetic Prose · Symbolism · Allegory