The Militiaman by Ambrose Bierce
The Militiaman by Ambrose Bierce is a short story that explores the themes of war, violence, and the human condition. The story follows a militiaman who is tasked with executing a fellow soldier who has been deemed a coward during a battle. As the militiaman carries out his duty, he grapples with the moral implications of his actions and the true meaning of courage. The story is known for its vivid descriptions of warfare and its thought-provoking examination of the nature of bravery and heroism. Bierce's writing style is direct and unflinching, adding to the story's emotional impact and leaving readers with a lasting impression. Overall, The Militiaman is a powerful and timeless tale that continues to resonate with readers today.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1898 · Genre: Historical Fiction, War & Military Fiction, Drama · 194 words
First lines
"O warrior with the burnished arms -- With bullion cord and tassel -- Pray tell me of the lurid charms Of service and the fierce alarms: The storming of the castle, The charge across the smoking field, The rifles' busy rattle -- What thoughts inspire the men who wield The blade -- their gallant souls how steeled And fortified in battle."
"Nay, man of peace, seek not to know War's baleful fascination -- The soldier's hunger for the foe, His dread of safety, joy to go To court annihilation.
Though calling bugles blow not now, Nor drums begin to beat yet, One fear unmans me, I'll allow, And poisons all my pleasure: How If I should get my feet wet!"
What this Textopian page supports
The Militiaman is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, War & Military Fiction, Drama
- Length: 194 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Militiaman 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 The Militiaman?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Military Incident by Ambrose Bierce
- The Veteran by Ambrose Bierce
- The Wooden Guns by Ambrose Bierce
- Three Recruits by Ambrose Bierce
- A Welcome by Ambrose Bierce
- Two Military Executions by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Historical Fiction — The book is set in a distinct historical period, often with references to real events or figures.
- War & Military Fiction — The book mainly focuses on military life and its various aspects, featuring characters who are soldiers or militiamen.
- Drama — The book deals with serious emotional themes, conflicts, and has dramatic scenes effectively detailing the human condition.
Tags
war · militia · soldier · violence · conflict · action · adventure · fiction · short story · classic · literature · american literature