The Divided Delegation
The Divided Delegation, written by Ambrose Bierce, is a short story that revolves around the theme of power and corruption. The narrative takes place in a small town where a group of delegates are sent to represent their community at a state convention. However, upon their arrival, they discover that the delegation has been divided into two factions, each with its own agenda. As the story progresses, the delegates find themselves caught up in a web of intrigue and deception, as they navigate the complex political landscape. Through their experiences, Bierce explores the dangers of unchecked power and the corrupting influence it can have on individuals and society as a whole. Throughout the narrative, Bierce employs his signature wit and satire to expose the hypocrisy and greed that often accompany political ambition. The story is a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of power and the importance of ethical leadership in a democratic society.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1898 · Genre: Fiction, Political Fiction, Drama · 162 words
First lines
A Delegation at Washington went to a New President, and said:
"Your Excellency, we are unable to agree upon a Favourite Son to represent us in your Cabinet."
"Then," said the New President, "I shall have to lock you up until you do agree."
So the Delegation was cast into the deepest dungeon beneath the moat, where it maintained a divided mind for many weeks, but finally reconciled its differences and asked to be taken before the New President.
What this Textopian page supports
The Divided Delegation is listed on Textopian as a fable by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1898 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Fable
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fiction, Political Fiction, Drama
- Length: 162 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Divided Delegation 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 The Divided Delegation?
- How does this fable by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- The Realm Of The Unreal by Ambrose Bierce
- The Unchanged Diplomatist by Ambrose Bierce
- The Satyr by Barry Pain
- Calvert And Penn by Brantz Mayer
- Dead Mans Plack by Bernard Capes
- The Haunted House by Madison Cawein
Genres
- Fiction — As the book is not based on real events or factual narratives, it is predominantly classified as a work of fiction.
- Political Fiction — The plot revolves around the intricacies of political delegations, hence it can be identified as political fiction.
- Drama — The divided delegation among political parties and the associated conflicts denote dramatic elements in the narrative.
Tags
Fiction · Short Story · Horror · Supernatural · Mystery · Detective · Crime · Thriller · Suspense · Literary Fiction · Classic · Victorian Era