The Real Test by H.C. McNeile (1916)
The story revolves around a young officer who returns to England after serving in the Boer War and becomes embroiled in a plot involving a German spy ring. The protagonist's experiences during the war have left him with physical and emotional scars, which are exacerbated by his involvement in the espionage plot. As he navigates this complex web of intrigue, he must confront his own demons and make difficult choices that will determine the outcome of the story.
By H.C. McNeile · First published 1916 · Genre: Drama, Psychological Fiction, Social Commentary · 8,092 words
First lines
"It depends entirely," remarked the Great Doctor, twirling an empty wine-glass in his long, sensitive fingers, "what you mean by fear. The common interpretation of the word -- the method which I think you would use to portray it on the stage" -- he turned to the Celebrated Actor, who was helping himself to a cigarette from a silver box on the table in front of him -- "would show a nervous shrinking from doing a thing: a positive distaste to it -- a probable refusal, finally, to carry out the action. And rightly or wrongly -- but very naturally -- that emotion is the object of universal scorn. But -- -- " and the Great Doctor paused thoughtfully -- "is there no more in fear than that?"
What this Textopian page supports
The Real Test is listed on Textopian as a novel by H.C. McNeile, dated 1916 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: H.C. McNeile
- Date: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Drama, Psychological Fiction, Social Commentary, Literary Fiction, Adventure
- Length: 8,092 words
- Structure: 1 section, 158 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Real Test by H.C. McNeile
- 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 Real Test?
- How does this novel by H.C. McNeile fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Drama first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Drama — The narrative focuses on intense emotional and moral conflicts, particularly around themes of bravery, cowardice, and societal judgment.
- Psychological Fiction — The story delves into the psychological aspects of fear and courage, exploring the internal struggles of the protagonist.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal norms and expectations, especially regarding masculinity and heroism.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style and thematic depth align with literary fiction, emphasizing character development and moral dilemmas.
Tags
Adventure · Action · Thriller · Mystery · Suspense · War · British Literature · Classic Fiction · Pulp Fiction · Short Story Collection · Humor · Satire