The Duel by Eugene Field (1898)
The story revolves around a duel between two men who were once friends but are now bitter enemies due to a romantic rivalry. The narrator recounts the events leading up to the duel and its aftermath, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and honor.
By Eugene Field · First published 1898 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Humor · 411 words
First lines
The gingham dog and the calico cat Side by side on the table sat; 'T was half-past twelve, and (what do you think! ) Nor one nor t' other had slept a wink! The old Dutch clock and the Chinese plate Appeared to know as sure as fate There was going to be a terrible spat. (I wasn't there; I simply state What was told to me by the Chinese plate! )
The gingham dog went "bow-wow-wow! " And the calico cat replied "mee-ow! " The air was littered, an hour or so, With bits of gingham and calico, While the old Dutch clock in the chimney place Up with its hands before its face, For it always dreaded a family row! (Now mind: I'm only telling you What the old Dutch clock declares is true! )
What this Textopian page supports
The Duel is listed on Textopian as a short story by Eugene Field, dated 1898 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Eugene Field
- Date: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Humor, Fantasy, Fable
- Length: 411 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Duel by Eugene Field
- 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 The Duel?
- How does this short story by Eugene Field fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Children's Literature first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Children's Literature — The poem features anthropomorphized animals and a playful narrative style, appealing to a young audience.
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetic forms.
- Humor — The absurdity of the situation and the playful tone contribute to a humorous interpretation of the conflict.
- Fantasy — The anthropomorphism and whimsical elements create a fantastical setting that diverges from reality.
Tags
Historical Fiction · American Literature · 19th Century · Drama · Tragedy · Romance · Social Class · Wealth · Power Struggle · Family Feud · Rivalry · Violence