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! )
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: Easy (6th Grade)
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
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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