Parker Adderson, Philosopher
The story revolves around a man who claims to be the reincarnation of Parker Adderson, Philosopher, a historical figure from ancient Greece. He presents himself as a sage and a philosopher, but his true nature is revealed through his actions and interactions with others. The narrative explores themes of identity, morality, and the human condition.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1866 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama · 2,879 words
First lines
"Prisoner, what is your name?"
"As I am to lose it at daylight tomorrow morning it is hardly worth while concealing it. Parker Adderson."
What this Textopian page supports
Parker Adderson, Philosopher is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1866 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: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Drama, Satire, Tragedy
- Length: 2,879 words
- Structure: 1 section, 59 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Parker Adderson, Philosopher 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 Parker Adderson, Philosopher?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Philosophical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Mockingbird by Ambrose Bierce
- The Coup De Grace by Ambrose Bierce
- Mohammed Fripouille by Guy De Maupassant
- A Tough Tussle by Ambrose Bierce
- Is He Living Or Is He Dead by Mark Twain
- The Schartz Metterklume Method by Hector Hugh Munro
Genres
- Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores deep philosophical themes regarding death, consciousness, and the nature of existence through dialogue and character introspection.
- Historical Fiction — Set during the Civil War, the story incorporates historical elements and military context, reflecting the era's conflicts and moral dilemmas.
- Drama — The intense interactions between characters and the high-stakes situation create a dramatic tension that drives the narrative.
- Satire — The protagonist's witty remarks and the absurdity of the situation serve to critique societal norms and the nature of authority.
Tags
Satire · Philosophical Fiction · Dark Humor · Absurdism · Social Commentary · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Short Story Collection · Irony · Sarcasm · Critique of Society · Existentialism