King Leopold by Harry Graham (1905)

Name: King Leopold
Author: Harry Graham

The novel is a satirical comedy that follows the misadventures of King Leopold, a monarch who is more interested in his own pleasures than in ruling his kingdom. He is surrounded by incompetent advisors and sycophants who enable his laziness and foolishness. As the story unfolds, King Leopold's antics lead to chaos and disaster throughout the land. His people suffer under his neglect and incompetence, while he remains oblivious to their plight. The novel is a commentary on the excesses of monarchy and the dangers of unchecked power. It is a humorous and lighthearted critique of the social ills of the time.

By Harry Graham · First published 1905 · Genre: Satire, Historical, Political · 829 words

First lines

("_In dealing with a race that has been composed of cannibals for thousands of years, it is necessary to use methods that best can shake their idleness and make them realise the sanctity of labour._" -- King Leopold of Belgium on the Congo scandal.)

People call him "knave" and "ogre" and a lot of kindred names, Or they label him as "tyrant" and "oppressor"; The majority must wilfully misunderstand his aims To regard him in the light of a transgressor. For, to tell the honest truth, he's a benevolent old man Who attempts to do his "duty to his neighbour" By endeavouring to formulate a philanthropic plan Which shall demonstrate the "sanctity of labour."

What this Textopian page supports

King Leopold is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1905 CE.

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

Work type: Poem
Author: Harry Graham
Date: 1905 CE
Language: English
Genres: Satire, Historical, Political, Poetry, Social Commentary
Length: 829 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

Genres

Satire — The text uses irony and exaggeration to criticize King Leopold's actions in the Congo, highlighting the absurdity and cruelty of colonial exploitation.
Historical — The poem references historical events related to King Leopold's rule over the Congo Free State, providing a commentary on the colonial period.
Political — The work addresses political themes, particularly the critique of imperialism and the policies of European powers in Africa.
Poetry — The text is written in verse form, employing rhyme and meter to convey its message.