Thersites by Ambrose Bierce (1899)
"TERSITES" is a novella written by Ambrose Bierce in 1898. The story follows the character of Tersites, a man who has been blinded and disfigured during the American Civil War. Despite his physical limitations, Tersites becomes a successful businessman and philanthropist, using his wealth to help those in need. However, his success is not without controversy, as some people view him as a monster due to his appearance. The novella explores themes of identity, disfigurement, and the nature of beauty.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1899 · Genre: Ancient Greek Literature, Satire, Historical Fiction · 178 words
First lines
So, in the Sunday papers "you", Del Mar, Damn, all great Englishmen in English speech? I am no Englishman, but in my reach A rogue shall never rail where heroes are.
You are the man, if I mistake you not, Who lately with a supplicating twitch Plucked at the pockets of the London rich And paid your share-engraver all you got.
Because that you have greatly lied, because You libel nations, and because no hand Of officer is raised to bid you stand, And falsehood is unpunished of the laws,
I stand here in a public place to mark With level finger where you part the crowd -- I stand to name you and to cry aloud: "Behold mendacity's great hierarch!"
What this Textopian page supports
Thersites is listed on Textopian as an essay by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1899 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Ancient Greek Literature, Satire, Historical Fiction, Mythology, Drama
- Length: 178 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Thersites 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 Thersites?
- How does this essay by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Ancient Greek Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Ancient Greek Literature — The title 'Thersites' refers to a Greek character in the Iliad, and this book reflects aspects of ancient Greek literature.
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce is known for his satirical writing style which often criticises society and human nature.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and characters in the book are based on historical events and figures, which fits the genre.
- Mythology — Given that Thersites is a figure from Greek mythology, books dealing with his story may also fall under the genre of mythology.
Tags
ghost story · supernatural · horror · fiction · short stories · classic literature · American literature · 19th century literature · symbolism · psychological horror · suspense · mystery