Authority by Ambrose Bierce (1899)
"AUTHORITY" is a novella written by Ambrose Bierce in 1899. The story follows a man named Mr. Gryce, who is tasked with solving a murder case that took place in a mansion belonging to a wealthy and influential family. As Gryce delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption that threatens to destroy the very fabric of society. The novella explores themes of power, privilege, and the abuse of authority, as well as the fragility of human relationships in the face of tragedy. Through its gripping plot and thought-provoking themes, "AUTHORITY" is a masterful work of literature that continues to captivate readers to this day.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1899 · Genre: Fiction, Satire, Historical Fiction · 248 words
First lines
"Authority, authority!" they shout Whose minds, not large enough to hold a doubt, Some chance opinion ever entertain, By dogma billeted upon their brain. "Ha!" they exclaim with choreatic glee, "Here's Dabster if you won't give in to me -- Dabster, sir, Dabster, to whom all men look With reverence!" The fellow wrote a book.
It matters not that many another wight Has thought more deeply, could more wisely write On t' other side -- that you yourself possess Knowledge where Dabster did but faintly guess.
What this Textopian page supports
Authority is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1899 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: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fiction, Satire, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
- Length: 248 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Authority by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Authority?
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Genres
- Fiction — Ambrose Bierce is a fiction author and "Authority" is one of his fictional works.
- Satire — Bierce uses irony and sarcasm to address the power and authority, which is a typical trait of satire.
- Historical Fiction — Bierce often bases his works on historical settings and events, which can be seen in "Authority".
- Literary Fiction — Bierce is recognized for his literary style and his way to approach themes in a complex and analytical way.
Tags
Fiction · Literary Fiction · Gothic Fiction · Horror · Supernatural · Mystery · Thriller · Suspense · Political Thriller · Dystopian Fiction · Social Commentary · Philosophy