Disparaged by his lack of material wealth, Albert is determined to win the admiration and respect of the proud forester, for it is the forester's daughter whom he loves and longs to marry. But Hedwig is convinced that her freedom is something to be coveted, and a life of ease is all she needs to be content. The Forester's Daughter touches upon the selfishness that makes one blind, the jealousy that makes one insane, and the love that makes one humble.