Retribution by Charles Kingsley
The work explores the concept that every sin inevitably leads to consequences, emphasizing that individuals will face repercussions for their actions within their lifetime. It begins with a biblical reference, asserting that sins will be revealed and punished, not necessarily in an afterlife but through the natural order of the world. The text argues that people often fear earthly consequences more than eternal damnation, as they are more attuned to the tangible realities of their lives. Using common sense and scriptural references, it illustrates that wrongdoing disrupts the inherent order established by God, leading to self-inflicted harm. The author highlights that even seemingly successful sins will ultimately result in personal suffering and loss of self-respect. The narrative addresses various societal roles, from tradesmen to the young and careless, warning that neglecting moral duties and living without regard for divine laws will culminate in regret and despair. The work concludes with a call to self-reflection and repentance, urging individuals to confront their sins before they manifest as profound personal crises. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's faults and seeking redemption to avoid the inevitable consequences of a life lived in disregard of moral and spiritual obligations.
By Charles Kingsley · First published 1849 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Religious · 2,910 words
First lines
NUMBERS, xxxii. 23. "Be sure your sin will find you out. "
THE full meaning of this text is, that every sin which a man commits is certain, sooner or later, to come home to him with fearful interest.
What this Textopian page supports
Retribution is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1849 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: 1849 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Religious, Romance, Political
- Length: 2,910 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Retribution 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 Retribution?
- 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
- Country Sentiment The Three Drinkers by Robert Graves
- A Lost Leader by E. Phillips Oppenheim
- The Wages Of Sin by Charles Kingsley
- No Defense Volume 2 by Gilbert Parker
- No Defense Volume 1 by Gilbert Parker
- The Punisher by D. H. Lawrence
Genres
- Historical Fiction — Charles Kingsley's writing style often includes setting his stories in historical time periods, emphasizing their social conditions.
- Adventure — Kingsley's 'Retribution' involves fast-paced sequences and notable elements of danger, hallmarks of the Adventure genre.
- Religious — As a priest himself, Kingsley frequently incorporates Christian themes and references into his writing.
- Romance — Charles Kingsley often includes elements of love and romantic relationships in his novels.
Tags
justice · vengeance · morality · redemption · conflict · betrayal · suffering · forgiveness · human nature · society · retribution · consequences