Foundations of the State
"FOUNDATIONS OF THE STATE" is a political treatise written by Ambrose Bierce in 1888. The book explores the concept of statehood and the various factors that contribute to its formation, including history, geography, culture, and economics. Bierce argues that the state is not just a physical entity but also a social and political construct, shaped by the interactions between individuals and groups within a society. He examines the role of the state in maintaining order, providing security, and promoting the common good, while also acknowledging its limitations and potential for abuse of power. Throughout the book, Bierce draws on examples from history and contemporary politics to illustrate his points, making "FOUNDATIONS OF THE STATE" a thought-provoking and timely work on the nature of statehood and governance.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1888 · Genre: Political Fiction, Satire, Historical Fiction · 396 words
First lines
Observe, dear Lord, what lively pranks Are played by sentimental cranks! First this one mounts his hinder hoofs And brays the chimneys off the roofs; Then that one, with exalted voice, Expounds the thesis of his choice, Our understandings to bombard, Till all the window panes are starred! A third augments the vocal shock Till steeples to their bases rock, Confessing, as they humbly nod, They hear and mark the will of God.
A fourth in oral thunder vents His awful penury of sense Till dogs with sympathetic howls, And lowing cows, and cackling fowls, Hens, geese, and all domestic birds, Attest the wisdom of his words.
What this Textopian page supports
Foundations of the State is listed on Textopian as an essay by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1888 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: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Fiction, Satire, Historical Fiction, Social Criticism
- Length: 396 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Foundations of the State 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 Foundations of the State?
- How does this essay by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Political Fiction — The book primarily uses a fictional narrative to comment and elaborate on political matters and the concept of the state.
- Satire — Author Ambrose Bierce often employs satire to criticize societal and political norms.
- Historical Fiction — The work presents a somewhat fictionalized portrayal of historical events, placing it within the genre of historical fiction.
- Social Criticism — Bierce frequently critiques social mores and institutions throughout the book.
Tags
Political Science · Government · Philosophy · Sociology · History · Law · Economics · International Relations · Public Policy · Administration · Management · Leadership