An Ancient Tale

Long ago in an ancient kingdom there lived a princess who was very young and very beautiful..
The princess, recently married, lived in a large and luxurious castle with her husband, a
powerfully and wealthy Lord. The young princess was not content, however, to sit and eat
strawberries by herself while her husband took frequent and long journeys to neighboring
kingdoms. She felt neglected and soon became quite unhappy. One day, while she was alone in
the castle gardens a handsome vagabond rode out of the forest bordering the castle. He spied the
beautiful princess, quickly won her heart, and carried her away with him.

After a day of dalliance, the young princess leaves, knowing that her husband is coming home.
She then discovered that the only way back to the castle is over a bridge that is guarded by a
madman who kills everyone who comes near him. Fearing to venture across the bridge she
sought out her kind and wise godfather. She explained her plight, begged forgiveness of the
godfather and asked his assistance in returning home before her husband returned. The
godfather, however, surprised and shocked at her behavior refused forgiveness and denied her
any assistance. Discouraged but still determined, the princess disguised her identity and sought
the help of the most noble of all the kingdom’s knights. After hearing the sad story, the knight
pledged his unfailing aid - for a small fee of $100. The young woman has no money. She runs
to her lover and asks for the $100 but he refuses to help. Her only choice is to go by the bridge
in spite of the danger and the madman kills her.

1. Who is most responsible for the death of the young princess?

 the princess herself
 the husband
 the handsome vagabond
 the godfather
 the White Knight
 the madman

2. Who is next responsible? The knight

3. Who is least responsible? The princess herself

4. What is your criterion for the above decisions?

The one took directly part in actions of the murder is more responsible for the murder

After the group decision making period

5. Was there much disagreement in your group?

6. If so, to what could this disagreement be attributed?

7. How did your group reach its decision?

8. To what extent do you think that the different members of your group support the group’s
decision?