Convict Robert Stroud faces life imprisonment in solitary confinement after murdering a prison guard. Driven mad by despair and isolation, Stroud's life gains new meaning after he nurses it back into health and happens upon a baby sparrow at the practice yard. Despite having only a 3rd grade education, Stroud proceeds to develop into renowned ornithologist and achieves a greater feeling of freedom and purpose than many folks find in the exterior world.