Noble Company by Charles Kingsley
The work reflects on the significance of All Saints' Day, emphasizing the vast company of just men and women who have contributed positively to humanity throughout history. It acknowledges the countless saints, both known and unknown, who have lived virtuous lives, promoting goodness and alleviating suffering. The text critiques the tendency of religious institutions to narrow the definition of sainthood, arguing for a broader, more inclusive understanding that recognizes the diverse contributions of individuals across time and cultures. It highlights the importance of gratitude for those who have inspired and uplifted society, regardless of their flaws or the limitations of human judgment. The author calls for a celebration of all who have done good, asserting that true merit lies in the impact of one's actions rather than adherence to specific doctrines or emotional experiences. The work culminates in a call to honor the spirits of the departed, recognizing their enduring influence and the hope of eventual perfection in the afterlife. It advocates for a collective remembrance that transcends sectarian boundaries, urging a spirit of charity and acknowledgment of the shared human experience in the pursuit of virtue and truth.
By Charles Kingsley · First published 1853 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Romance · 2,724 words
First lines
HEBREWS XII. 22, 23. Ye are come to the city of the living God, and to the spirits of just men made perfect.
I have quoted only part of the passage of Scripture in which these words occur. If you want a good employment for All Saints' Day, read the whole passage, the whole chapter; and no less, the 11th chapter, which comes before it: so will you understand better the meaning of All Saints' Day. But sufficient for the day is the good thereof, as well as the evil; and the good which I have to say this morning is -- You are come to the spirits of just men made perfect; for this is All Saints' Day.
What this Textopian page supports
Noble Company is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1853 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Speech
- Author: Charles Kingsley
- Date: 1853 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Romance, Drama
- Length: 2,724 words
- Structure: 1 section, 26 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Noble Company by Charles Kingsley
- 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 Noble Company?
- How does this speech by Charles Kingsley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Two Generals by Anthony Trollope
- The Staying Power Of Sir Rohan by Frank R. Stockton
- A Point Of Honor by Francis Hopkinson Smith
- Officer And Man by Louis Becke
- The Three Friends by Charles Lamb
- Davids Strength by Charles Kingsley
Genres
- Historical Fiction — The book is set around historical events and includes depictions of these events, including details of life during this historical period.
- Adventure — The book is centered around an adventurous journey, featuring exciting experiences and events.
- Romance — The book contains relationships and romantic involvements between characters, and these relationships play a significant role in the plot.
- Drama — The book contains dramatic elements such as conflict and resolution, intense character development, and emotional themes.
Tags
adventure · friendship · loyalty · courage · morality · victory · honor · sacrifice · leadership · growth · conflict · teamwork