An Affair of Outposts
The story revolves around a group of American soldiers stationed at an outpost on the Mexican border during the late 19th century. The narrative explores themes of isolation, boredom, and the psychological effects of prolonged military service. As the days blend together, the soldiers' minds begin to wander, and they engage in various forms of entertainment, including storytelling and games. However, their leisure activities are disrupted by a series of events that test their resolve and challenge their perceptions of reality. The narrative is characterized by its use of satire and social commentary, critiquing the military's treatment of soldiers and the societal norms of the time. Through the characters' experiences, the story highlights the human cost of war and the dehumanizing effects of prolonged conflict. Ultimately, the tale unfolds as a darkly comedic exploration of the absurdities and cruelties of life in the military, raising questions about the nature of reality and the human condition.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1868 · Genre: Historical Fiction, War Literature, Drama · 4,162 words
First lines
Two men sat in conversation. One was the Governor of the State. The year was 1861; the war was on and the Governor already famous for the intelligence and zeal with which he directed all the powers and resources of his State to the service of the Union.
"What! you? " the Governor was saying in evident surprise -- "you too want a military commission? Really, the fifing and drumming must have effected a profound alteration in your convictions. In my character of recruiting sergeant I suppose I ought not to be fastidious, but" -- there was a touch of irony in his manner -- "well, have you forgotten that an oath of allegiance is required?"
What this Textopian page supports
An Affair of Outposts is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1868 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1868 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, War Literature, Drama, Political Fiction, Tragedy
- Length: 4,162 words
- Structure: 1 section, 69 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Affair of Outposts by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering An Affair of Outposts?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- One Kind Of Officer by Ambrose Bierce
- In The Court by Anton Chekhov
- The Circuit Judge by Edgar Lee Masters
- The Town Marshal by Edgar Lee Masters
- Talent by Anton Chekhov
- Art And The Bronco by O. Henry
Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set during the Civil War, exploring themes of loyalty, conflict, and personal sacrifice within a historical context.
- War Literature — The story depicts the realities of war, including the chaos and brutality of battle, as well as the psychological impact on individuals.
- Drama — The dialogue-driven plot focuses on intense personal and moral conflicts between characters, highlighting their emotional struggles.
- Political Fiction — The characters navigate political allegiances and the implications of their choices during a time of national division.
Tags
Western Fiction · Short Story Collection · American Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Outlaw Fiction · Frontier Life · California History · Gold Rush Era · Mining Camps · Law and Order