One Kind of Officer
The story revolves around a young officer who is part of an expedition to the American West. He is tasked with escorting a group of settlers through treacherous terrain. The officer's character is revealed through his interactions with the settlers, particularly a young woman named Mrs. Jenkins. As they journey deeper into the wilderness, the officer's sense of duty and responsibility are tested by the harsh conditions and the settlers' growing discontent. He must navigate the delicate balance between protecting the group and maintaining order among its members. The story explores themes of leadership, morality, and the human condition in the face of adversity. The officer's actions and decisions serve as a commentary on the complexities of authority and the consequences of one's choices.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1867 · Genre: Military Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama · 4,022 words
First lines
"Captain Ransome, it is not permitted to you to know anything. It is sufficient that you obey my order -- which permit me to repeat. If you perceive any movement of troops in your front you are to open fire, and if attacked hold this position as long as you can. Do I make myself understood, sir?"
"Nothing could be plainer. Lieutenant Price," -- this to an officer of his own battery, who had ridden up in time to hear the order -- "the general's meaning is clear, is it not?"
What this Textopian page supports
One Kind of Officer is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1867 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: 1867 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Military Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama, Psychological Fiction, Tragedy
- Length: 4,022 words
- Structure: 1 section, 73 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for One Kind of Officer 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 One Kind of Officer?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Military Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- An Affair Of Outposts by Ambrose Bierce
- Books At Barracaboo A Sketch by John Arthur Barry
- The Californians Tale by Mark Twain
- The Caballeros Way by O. Henry
- Cannibalism In The Cars by Mark Twain
- Billy And The Big Stick by Richard Harding Davis
Genres
- Military Fiction — The narrative centers around military officers, their orders, and the consequences of their actions during a battle, highlighting the complexities of military life.
- Historical Fiction — Set during a historical conflict, the story reflects the realities and experiences of soldiers in that era, providing insight into the historical context.
- Drama — The work explores intense emotional and moral dilemmas faced by the characters, particularly in the context of duty and responsibility.
- Psychological Fiction — The internal thoughts and motivations of the characters, especially Captain Ransome, are examined, revealing the psychological impact of war.
Tags
American Literature · Short Story Collection · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Military Fiction · War Story · Western Fiction · California Setting · 19th Century American History · Gold Rush Era · Outlaw Fiction