The Penitent Elector
The Penitent Elector, written by Ambrose Bierce, is a short story that revolves around the theme of redemption and forgiveness. The narrative follows the journey of an unnamed protagonist who seeks penance for his past mistakes by running for political office. Despite facing opposition from those who are skeptical of his intentions, the protagonist perseveres and ultimately wins the election. Through this experience, he learns the value of humility and the importance of serving others. The story is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, highlighting the capacity for growth and redemption that exists within each individual.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1892 · Genre: Political Fiction, Satire, Historical Fiction · 82 words
First lines
A Person belonging to the Society for Passing Resolutions of Respect for the Memory of Deceased Members having died received the customary attention.
"Good Heavens!" exclaimed a Sovereign Elector, on hearing the resolutions read, "what a loss to the nation. And to think that I once voted against that angel for Inspector of Gate-latches in Public Squares!"
In remorse the Sovereign Elector deprived himself of political influence by learning to read.
What this Textopian page supports
The Penitent Elector is listed on Textopian as a fable 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: Fable
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Fiction, Satire, Historical Fiction
- Length: 82 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Penitent Elector 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 Penitent Elector?
- How does this fable by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Political Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Revivalist Revived by Ambrose Bierce
- An Inadequate Fee by Ambrose Bierce
- Censor Literarum by Ambrose Bierce
- The Thoughtful Warden by Ambrose Bierce
- One Of The Unfair Sex by Ambrose Bierce
- A Controversialist by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Political Fiction — The 'Elector' in the title suggests political themes. Bierce often wrote about politics in a satirical manner.
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce is known for his satirical take on various topics, suggesting this book likely incorporates elements of satire.
- Historical Fiction — Bierce's works often have a historical setting or context, suggesting this book might also contain historical elements.
Tags
horror · gothic · fiction · short story · supernatural · paranormal · mystery · thriller · suspense · political · social commentary · dark humor