The narrative unfolds in ancient Sardes, where King Candaules prepares to marry Nyssia, the daughter of the Satrap Megabazus. The city buzzes with excitement for the royal wedding, and Nyssia's beauty is the subject of much speculation, though she remains veiled and largely unknown to men. Candaules, captivated by Nyssia's beauty, grows increasingly frustrated by her modesty, which prevents her from revealing herself to the public. Candaules confides in Gyges, his chief guard, expressing his desire for Gyges to witness Nyssia's beauty. Despite Gyges' protests about the impropriety of such an act, Candaules insists, ultimately leading Gyges to hide in the royal chamber to observe Nyssia as she undresses. When Nyssia unknowingly reveals herself to Gyges, he is struck by her beauty, but the act of seeing her naked fills him with guilt and desire. Nyssia, upon discovering that she has been seen, feels violated and dishonored. She confronts Gyges, demanding he choose between killing Candaules or facing her wrath. Caught between his loyalty to the king and his newfound passion for Nyssia, Gyges ultimately succumbs to the pressure and agrees to murder Candaules. That night, as Candaules sleeps, Gyges carries out the act, killing the king and fulfilling Nyssia's demand for vengeance. With Candaules dead, Gyges ascends to the throne, marrying Nyssia, who remains a figure of beauty and mystery. The story concludes with Gyges ruling Lydia, aware of the cost of his actions and the secret he must keep regarding Nyssia's unveiled beauty. The tale explores themes of desire, power, and the consequences of voyeurism, ultimately leading to a transformation of both characters and the political landscape of Lydia.
By Théophile Gautier · First published 1845 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Tragedy, Romance · 5 chapters