The War-horse and the Miller
The story follows a war-horse named Black who is captured by a miller after the war. The miller treats Black with kindness and respect, but Black longs for his former life as a war horse. He misses the thrill of battle and the camaraderie of his fellow soldiers. Despite this, he finds joy in the simple pleasures of life with the miller and his family. The story explores themes of loyalty, nostalgia, and the complexities of war.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1890 · Genre: Satire, Short Stories, Historical Fiction · 91 words
First lines
Having heard that the State was about to be invaded by a hostile army, a
War-horse belonging to a Colonel of the Militia offered his services to a passing Miller.
"No," said the patriotic Miller, "I will employ no one who deserts his position in the hour of danger. It is sweet to die for one's country."
Something in the sentiment sounded familiar, and, looking at the Miller more closely the War-horse recognised his master in disguise.
What this Textopian page supports
The War-horse and the Miller is listed on Textopian as a fable by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1890 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: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Short Stories, Historical Fiction
- Length: 91 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The War-horse and the Miller 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 War-horse and the Miller?
- How does this fable by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Hercules And The Carter by Ambrose Bierce
- Uncoloneled by Ambrose Bierce
- Tinker Dick by Ambrose Bierce
- The Cynics Bequest by Ambrose Bierce
- Disavowal by Ambrose Bierce
- The Dog And The Reflection by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Bierce is known for his satirical stories and cynical wit.
- Short Stories — Bierce often wrote in the form of short stories, with concise and impactful narratives.
- Historical Fiction — Bierce often set his stories in historical periods, such as the Civil War.
Tags
classic · short story · war · horses · miller · fantasy · magic · adventure · literary fiction · american literature · 19th century · historical fiction