The Wolf and the Shepherds
In this short story, a wolf is introduced as a new member of a flock of shepherds, leading to unexpected consequences. The wolf's cunning and intelligence are highlighted as it navigates its new role within the group, ultimately challenging the authority of the shepherds. Through the use of irony and satire, Bierce explores themes of power dynamics and the nature of loyalty.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1891 · Genre: Satire, Fable, Short Story · 70 words
First lines
A Wolf passing a Shepherd's hut looked in and saw the shepherds dining.
"Come in," said one of them, ironically, "and partake of your favourite dish, a haunch of mutton."
"Thank you," said the Wolf, moving away, "but you must excuse me; I have just had a saddle of shepherd."
What this Textopian page supports
The Wolf and the Shepherds is listed on Textopian as a fable by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1891 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: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Fable, Short Story, Fiction
- Length: 70 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Wolf and the Shepherds 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 Wolf and the Shepherds?
- 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
- The Wolf And The Feeding Goat by Ambrose Bierce
- The Cat And The Birds by Ambrose Bierce
- The Mountain And The Mouse by Ambrose Bierce
- The Death Penalty by Ambrose Bierce
- A Challenge by Ambrose Bierce
- The Kite The Pigeons And The Hawk by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Bierce' works, including 'The Wolf and the Shepherds', often comprise of satirical storytelling and dark humor to critique the human condition.
- Fable — This small piece of literature employs animals as the main characters who play out moral lessons, characteristics of fables.
- Short Story — 'The Wolf and the Shepherds', is a concise narrative without complex plot, typical of the short story genre.
- Fiction — The narrative uses imaginary events and characters to explore its themes and is therefore considered fiction.
Tags
fable · folklore · wolves · shepherds · animals · nature · adventure · magic · mystery · supernatural · survival · power