The story begins as the townspeople of a medieval German Village prepare to celebrate the recent wine harvest. Giselle, a beautiful peasant girl with a feeble heart but a love for dancing, resides in this village with her protective mother, Berthe. Giselle has captured the affections of the local gamekeeper, Hilarion, who hopes to see and dance with her at the upcoming festivities. He loves Giselle and dreams of marrying her one day.

During one of his hunting excursions, Duke Albrecht likewise becomes enamored with Giselle. He decides to disguise himself as a peasant named Loys in an attempt to pursue her, even though he is in truth betrothed to the Duchess, Bathilde. His squire, Wilfred, is concerned that Albrecht’s deception will be discovered, ultimately jeopardizing Albrecht’s betrothal.

Unbeknownst to Berthe, Giselle meets Albrecht disguised as Loys and they fall in love. The two of them dance together and pledge their love but are interrupted by a jealous and angered Hilarion. He tries to separate the couple but is ultimately chased away by Albrecht.

The villagers arrive from their successful grape harvest and encourage Giselle to join in the celebration. They are soon interrupted by the arrival Berthe, who chastises Giselle for dancing as it is sinful and may threaten her weak heart. Berthe reminds Giselle of the tale of the Wilis – the demonic sprits of virgin brides who die before their wedding day, fated to rise from their graves to kill any man who wanders into the woods.

Hunting horns are heard in the distance. Albrecht retreats lest his identity be discovered by the approaching Prince and his daughter, Bathilde, whom Albrecht is betrothed to marry.

The Prince and Bathilde arrive to sample the wine from the harvest and to rest from hunting. Giselle is fascinated with Bathilde’s dress and the Princess quickly takes an interest in her. Bathilde inquires if Giselle is in love, prompting Giselle to share that she is engaged. Feeling a kinship with Giselle, the Princess confides that she is also engaged to be married and as a sign of her affection for Giselle, gives Giselle her necklace as a wedding gift before departing with her father.

Filled with suspicion, Hilarion sneaks away and discovers Albrecht’s sword, revealing that the peasant Loys is truly a nobleman. The harvest festivities continue until interrupted by Hilarion who appears with Albrecht’s sword. Hilarion uses a hunting horn to summon the return of the hunting party. Bathilde and her father arrive and are surprised to see Albrecht dressed as a peasant. Bathilde declares that she is betrothed to Albrecht.

Giselle struggles to believe this revelation. She descends into madness as her mother tries to console her, but ultimately feelings of grief and betrayal consume her and she dies from a broken heart. Her mother and the villagers are left to mourn her sudden death.