Charity by Ambrose Bierce (1893)
"Charity" is a short story by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1893. The story follows a man named John, who has lost his job and is struggling to make ends meet. Despite his poverty, John continues to give money to a beggar he encounters every day, even though he knows the beggar will only spend it on alcohol. As John's financial situation worsens, he begins to question why he feels compelled to give the beggar money, and whether his charity is truly helping the man or simply enabling his bad habits. The story raises questions about the nature of charity and the ethics of giving to those in need.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1893 · Genre: Satire, Short Stories, Classics · 893 words
First lines
THE promoter of organized charity protests against "the wasteful and mischievous method of undirected relief." He means, naturally, relief that is not directed by somebody else than the person giving it -- undirected by him and his kind -- professional almoners -- philanthropists who deem it more blessed to allot than to bestow. Indubitably much is wasted and some mischief done by indiscriminate giving -- and individual givers are addicted to that faulty practice. But there is something to be said for "undirected relief" quite the same. It blesses not only him who receives (when he is worthy; and when he is not upon his own head be it), but him who gives.
What this Textopian page supports
Charity is listed on Textopian as an essay by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1893 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Short Stories, Classics, American Literature
- Length: 893 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Charity 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 Charity?
- How does this essay by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Rear Elevation by Ambrose Bierce
- One Of The Saints by Ambrose Bierce
- To Maude by Ambrose Bierce
- A Serenade by Ambrose Bierce
- The Division Superintendent by Ambrose Bierce
- One Of The Redeemed by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce was known for his biting wit and cynical approach to life, showcased in his satirical writing in 'Charity'.
- Short Stories — The book 'Charity' belongs to a collection of Bierce's shorter works, making it a part of the 'Short Stories' genre.
- Classics — Being a part of Ambrose Bierce's literary legacy, 'Charity' is considered a classic in the world of literature.
- American Literature — As an American author, Bierce's work, including 'Charity', contributes to the 'American Literature' genre.
Tags
gothic fiction · supernatural horror · mystery · thriller · romance · suspense · fantasy · paranormal · magical realism · dark humor · social commentary · psychological horror