The Symbol and the Saint by Eugene Field
The poem explores the contrast between a symbol of evil and a symbol of good. The speaker describes a serpent coiled around a crucifix, highlighting the contradictions between the two symbols. The serpent represents deceit, temptation, and sin, while the crucifix represents redemption, sacrifice, and forgiveness. The poem raises questions about the nature of good and evil, suggesting that they are intertwined and inseparable.
By Eugene Field · First published 1895 · Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Romance · 3,674 words
First lines
Once upon a time a young man made ready for a voyage. His name was Norss; / broad were his shoulders, his cheeks were ruddy, his hair was fair and / long, his body betokened strength, and good-nature shone from his blue / eyes and lurked about the corners of his mouth.
"Where are you going? " asked his neighbor Jans, the forge-master.
What this Textopian page supports
The Symbol and the Saint is listed on Textopian as a short story by Eugene Field, dated 1895 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: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Romance, Fairy Tale, Mythology
- Length: 3,674 words
- Structure: 1 section, 48 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Symbol and the Saint by Eugene Field
- 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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Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative features magical elements, mythical creatures, and a dreamlike journey, characteristic of the fantasy genre.
- Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a voyage to seek a bride, involving exploration and travel to foreign lands.
- Romance — The central plot revolves around the romantic relationship between Norss and Faia, culminating in their union.
- Fairy Tale — The story has a fairy tale structure, with moral lessons, magical beings, and a happy ending.
Tags
Catholicism · Hagiography · Christianity · Religion · Spirituality · Saints · Symbolism · Allegory · Mysticism · Philosophy · Theology · Biography