Noblesse Oblige
The novel revolves around the life of a wealthy and beautiful woman who is trapped in a loveless marriage with a man much older than her. She meets a young poet who awakens her passion and desire for life, leading to a tumultuous affair that threatens to destroy her social standing and reputation. As she navigates the complexities of her emotions and the societal expectations placed upon her, she must confront the consequences of her choices and decide what is truly important to her.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 187 words
First lines
I hold it the duty of one who is gifted And specially dowered in all men's sight, To know no rest till his life is lifted Fully up to his great gifts' height.
He must mould the man into rare completeness, For gems are set only in gold refined. He must fashion his thoughts into perfect sweetness. And cast out folly and pride from his mind.
For he who drinks from a god's gold fountain Of art or music or rhythmic song Must sift from his soul the chaff of malice, And weed from his heart the roots of wrong.
Great gifts should be worn, like a crown befitting, And not like gems in a beggar's hands! And the toil must be constant and unremitting Which lifts up the king to the crown's demands.
What this Textopian page supports
Noblesse Oblige is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1899 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Literary
- Length: 187 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Noblesse Oblige by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes revolve around duty, morality, and the ethical responsibilities of the gifted.
- Inspirational — The content aims to inspire individuals to live up to their potential and moral obligations.
- Literary — The writing style is sophisticated and employs literary devices such as metaphor and symbolism.
Tags
Romance · Drama · Family · Social Class · Wealth · Power · Responsibility · Morality · Ethics · High Society · Gilded Age · American Literature