Indicted by Ambrose Bierce (1892)
INDICTED, by Ambrose Bierce, is a short story that explores the themes of justice, morality, and the human condition. The narrative follows a man who is on trial for a crime he did not commit, and it raises questions about the fairness and impartiality of the legal system. The story begins with the defendant, John H. Mills, being brought into a courtroom to stand trial for murder. Despite his protests of innocence, Mills is found guilty and sentenced to death. As he awaits his execution, Mills reflects on the injustices of the legal system and the lack of empathy shown by those in power. Throughout the story, Bierce employs a distinctive style that blends humor and irony with a darker undercurrent of social commentary. The narrative is structured around a series of vignettes that showcase Mills' experiences in the courtroom and prison, as well as his interactions with various characters, including his defense attorney and the prison warden. One of the key themes of INDICTED is the idea that justice is not always fair or impartial. Bierce suggests that those in power often use their position to manipulate the legal system for their own gain, and that innocent people can be wrongly accused and convicted as a result. This theme is reinforced by Mills' observation that "the law is an ass," a phrase that has become a common expression in American culture. Another important aspect of INDICTED is the way it explores the human condition through its portrayal of Mills and other characters. Bierce delves into the psychological effects of being wrongly accused and imprisoned, as well as the emotional toll that such experiences can take on a person. Through Mills' struggles and reflections, the story highlights the fragility of human dignity and the importance of empathy in society. Overall, INDICTED is a thought-provoking and timely tale that continues to resonate with readers today. Its exploration of justice, morality, and the human condition make it a classic of American literature, and its themes remain relevant in contemporary society.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1892 · Genre: Satire, Mystery, Political Fiction · 291 words
First lines
Dear Bruner, once we had a little talk (That is to say, 'twas I did all the talking) About the manner of your moral walk: How devious the trail you made in stalking, On level ground, your law-protected game -- "Another's Dollar" is, I think, its name.
Your crooked course more recently is not So blamable; for, truly, you have stumbled On evil days; and 'tis your luckless lot To traverse spaces (with a spirit humbled, Contrite, dejected and divinely sad) Where, 'tis confessed, the walking's rather bad.
Jordan, the song says, is a road (I thought It was a river) that is hard to travel; And Dublin, if you'd find it, must be sought Along a highway with more rocks than gravel.
What this Textopian page supports
Indicted is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1892 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: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Mystery, Political Fiction, Suspense
- Length: 291 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Valley Of The Shadow Of Theft by Ambrose Bierce
- Three Kinds Of A Rogue by Ambrose Bierce
- The Penitent Thief by Ambrose Bierce
- One Morning by Ambrose Bierce
- Detected by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce is known for his satirical writing style, often using it to critique society, politics, and human nature.
- Mystery — The title 'Indicted' suggests a criminal aspect, usually categorized under Mystery genre.
- Political Fiction — Indictment often relates to legal proceedings, which involves politics, thus falls under the genre of Political Fiction.
- Suspense — The process of indictment inherently involves tension and suspense, aligning with this genre.
Tags
mystery · thriller · detective · crime · suspense · fiction · literature · classic · american · gothic · horror · supernatural