"The Fall of Princes" is a narrative poem written by Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, in the late 16th century. The poem explores themes of power, ambition, and the inevitable decline of those in high positions. It reflects on how wealth and status can lead to downfall, emphasizing the transient nature of fortune. The poem is structured as a series of vignettes, each illustrating the rise and fall of various historical figures. Through these examples, de Vere conveys a moral lesson about the dangers of pride and the fleeting nature of success, reminding readers that no one is immune to misfortune.