Lady Godiva by Harry Graham (1901)

Name: Lady Godiva
Author: Harry Graham

The story revolves around a woman who rides naked through the streets of Coventry to protest her husband's heavy taxes. She is accompanied by a servant who holds a bridle in front of her. The event becomes a legendary tale, and various interpretations are offered throughout history.

By Harry Graham · First published 1901 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Historical Fiction · 736 words

First lines

In the old town of Coventry, so people say, Dwelt a Peer who was utterly lacking in pity; Universally loathed for the rigorous way That he burdened the rates of the City. By his merciless methods of petty taxation, The poor were reduced to the verge of starvation.

But the Earl had a wife, whom the people adored, For her kindness of heart even more than her beauty, And her pitiless lord she besought and implored To remit this extortionate "duty"; But he answered: "My dear, pray reflect at your leisure, What _you_ deem a 'duty,' to _me_ is a pleasure!"

What this Textopian page supports

Lady Godiva is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1901 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: 1901 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Satire, Historical Fiction, Romance, Legend
Length: 736 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Lady Godiva by Harry Graham
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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Satire — The narrative employs humor and irony to critique societal norms and the concept of duty.
Historical Fiction — The story is based on the legendary figure of Lady Godiva, set in a historical context.
Romance — The plot involves the relationship between Lady Godiva and her husband, with elements of love and sacrifice.