Benedictus by Gilbert Parker (1906)

Name: Benedictus
Author: Gilbert Parker

"Benedictus" by Gilbert Parker tells the story of a young man who becomes a priest in the Catholic Church during the time of the French Revolution. The novel explores themes of faith, love, and sacrifice as Benedictus navigates his way through a tumultuous period in history.

By Gilbert Parker · First published 1906 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 186 words

First lines

You bless me, then you turn away your head -- "Never again, dear. I have blessed you so, My lips upon your lips; between must flow The river -- Oh the river! " Thus you said.

The river -- Oh the river, and the sun; Stream that we may not cross, sun that is joy: Flow as thou must; shine on in full employ -- Shine through her eyes thou; let the river run.

O lady, to your liegeman speak. You say: "Dream no more dreams; yourself be as am I"

Your hands clasped to your face, so shutting out the day.

What this Textopian page supports

Benedictus is listed on Textopian as a poem by Gilbert Parker, dated 1906 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Gilbert Parker
Date: 1906 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Philosophical
Length: 186 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Benedictus by Gilbert Parker
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 Benedictus?
How does this poem by Gilbert Parker fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm, meter, and lyrical expression.
Romance — Themes of love, separation, and emotional connection are central to the narrative.
Drama — The emotional intensity and interpersonal conflict suggest dramatic elements.
Philosophical — The text explores existential themes and reflections on life and relationships.