To the Fool-Killer by Ambrose Bierce
"The Fool-Killer" is a short story by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1899. The story follows a man known only as "The Fool-Killer," who travels the countryside killing fools as he encounters them. The narrative is presented in a matter-of-fact tone, with little to no explanation or justification for the protagonist's actions. The story raises questions about morality and justice, leaving readers to ponder the nature of foolishness and the consequences of taking matters into one's own hands.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1899 · Genre: Satire, Fantasy, Short Story · 699 words
First lines
Ah, welcome, welcome! Sit you down, old friend; Your pipe I'll serve, your bottle I'll attend. 'Tis many a year since you and I have known Society more pleasant than our own In our brief respites from excessive work -- I pointing out the hearts for you to dirk.
What have you done since lately at this board We canvassed the deserts of all the horde And chose what names would please the people best, Engraved on coffin-plates -- what bounding breast Would give more satisfaction if at rest? But never mind -- the record cannot fail: The loftiest monuments will tell the tale.
What this Textopian page supports
To the Fool-Killer is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Fantasy, Short Story, Drama
- Length: 699 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To the Fool-Killer 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 To the Fool-Killer?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- A Black List by Ambrose Bierce
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- Secret Worship by Algernon Blackwood
Genres
- Satire — Given that Ambrose Bierce was known for his biting wit and satirical style, this book likely employs humor to criticize and expose human folly, consistent with the satirical genre.
- Fantasy — The concept of a 'Fool Killer' hints at surreal or fantastical elements that are beyond ordinary reality.
- Short Story — Bierce is renowned for his concise, lean prose style and many of his works are short stories.
- Drama — The title suggests a narrative steeped in conflict and human struggle, aspects commonly associated with the drama genre.
Tags
mystery · thriller · horror · gothic · supernatural · suspense · violence · death · murder · crime · justice · revenge