The Prerogative of Might
The Prerogative of Might is a short story by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1893. The story follows the journey of a man named John Horton, who seeks to prove his superiority over a fellow traveler through a series of challenges. Despite their initial friendly demeanor, the two men's competitive nature eventually leads to a violent confrontation. In this story, Bierce explores themes of masculinity, power dynamics, and the dangers of unchecked ambition. Through his use of vivid imagery and tense dialogue, Bierce creates a sense of foreboding and unease that culminates in a shocking and tragic ending. Overall, The Prerogative of Might is a thought-provoking and timely tale that highlights the dangers of blind ambition and the importance of empathy and mutual respect in human relationships.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1895 · Genre: Short Stories, Historical Fiction, War Literature · 198 words
First lines
A Slander travelling rapidly through the land upon its joyous mission was accosted by a Retraction and commanded to halt and be killed.
"Your career of mischief is at an end," said the Retraction, drawing his club, rolling up his sleeves, and spitting on his hands.
"Why should you slay me?" protested the Slander. "Whatever my intentions were, I have been innocuous, for you have dogged my strides and counteracted my influence."
"Dogged your grandmother!" said the Retraction, with contemptuous vulgarity of speech. "In the order of nature it is appointed that we two shall never travel the same road."
What this Textopian page supports
The Prerogative of Might is listed on Textopian as a fable by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1895 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: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Short Stories, Historical Fiction, War Literature, Horror, Satire
- Length: 198 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Prerogative of Might by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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- How does this fable by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- Two Footpads by Ambrose Bierce
- The Massacre by Ambrose Bierce
- At The National Encampment by Ambrose Bierce
- A Years Casualties by Ambrose Bierce
- Two Military Executions by Ambrose Bierce
- Revenge by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Short Stories — Ambrose Bierce was known for his unique style of poignant and dark short stories.
- Historical Fiction — Bierce, in many of his works, uses historical events and settings to build the context for his stories.
- War Literature — Bierce often delved into his own experiences in the American Civil War to shape the themes and conflicts in his stories.
- Horror — Bearing elements of supernatural and psychological horror, Bierce's works often explored themes of death and demise.
Tags
horror · fiction · short story · gothic · supernatural · violence · power · corruption · ambition · greed · betrayal · revenge