The Annotated Edition
Part Second is the central part of Longfellow's *Tales of a Wayside Inn*, a poem that uses a frame-narrative format where a group of travelers at an inn in Massachusetts share stories in verse.
§01Quick summary
§02Themes
§03Line by line
Prelude
Editor's note
The Prelude begins Part Second just like it did for the first part: the travelers settle in again, the mood returns, and the reader is brought back to the warm inn atmosphere. Longfellow uses these framing passages to create a sense of continuity, making the collection feel like one cohesive evening rather than a scattered anthology.
The Sicilian's Tale / The Bell of Atri
Editor's note
The Sicilian tells the story of *The Bell of Atri*, a medieval Italian legend featuring a bell in the town square that anyone can ring to call for justice. An old knight ignores his loyal horse, which ultimately rings the bell on its own. The king decides in favor of the horse. This fable highlights the themes of justice and the responsibility we have to care for all creatures, even animals.
The Spanish Jew's Tale / Kambalu
Editor's note
*Kambalu* takes the group to Kublai Khan's court, inspired by Marco Polo's journeys. The Spanish Jew shares stories of the Khan's splendid city and the marvels of the East, mixing history with a touch of fantasy. This narrative highlights the allure of the exotic and showcases storytelling's ability to transport listeners through time and space.
The Student's Tale / The Cobbler of Hagenau
Editor's note
The Student recounts the story of a humble cobbler in the German town of Hagenau who experiences the supernatural. This tale belongs to the tradition of German folk legends, blending the ordinary aspects of craft and labor with the eerie. It showcases the Student's fascination with folklore and the moral lessons found in everyday life.
The Musician's Tale / The Ballad of Carmilhan
Editor's note
*The Ballad of Carmilhan* tells the haunting tale of a ghost ship and a fateful voyage — it stands out as one of the collection's darkest stories. The Musician's choice of theme resonates with his character: the narrative features a strong, driving rhythm that echoes the sea's allure, while its eerie atmosphere captures the essence of an old sailor's warning.
The Poet's Tale / Lady Wentworth
Editor's note
The Poet narrates the story of Martha Hilton, who went from being a servant girl to becoming Lady Wentworth, the wife of New Hampshire's royal governor. This New England story is based on real events, and the Poet highlights themes of beauty, social change, and the unexpected twists that life can bring.
The Theologian's Tale / The Legend Beautiful
Editor's note
*The Legend Beautiful* serves as the spiritual heart of Part Second. A monk in his cell experiences a vision of Christ but is soon called away to feed the poor at the monastery gate. When he returns, the vision remains, and he hears the words: "Hadst thou stayed, I must have fled." This tale suggests that active charity is a form of worship — serving others *is* the vision.
The Student's Second Tale / The Baron of St. Castine
Editor's note
The Student recounts a story set in colonial New England and New France about the French Baron of St. Castine. He immersed himself in the Wabanaki culture of Maine, married the daughter of a chief, and created a life that straddled two worlds. This tale explores themes of identity, exile, and the blending of cultural boundaries on the American frontier.
Finale
Editor's note
The Finale wraps up Part Second as the evening comes to an end. Longfellow uses this moment for the travelers to contemplate what they’ve experienced and to indicate that the night — along with the collection's central movement — is nearing its conclusion. The tone is warm and a bit nostalgic, recognizing that the joys of good company and great stories are fleeting.
§04Tone & mood
§05Symbols & metaphors
§06Historical context
§07FAQ
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