Might and Right (the Trial as by Fire)
The story revolves around a young man who is accused of murder and put on trial. The narrative explores the themes of justice, morality, and the nature of truth. Through the trial process, the protagonist's character is revealed, and his guilt or innocence is determined. The novel raises questions about the reliability of human perception and the fallibility of the judicial system.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Political · 56 words
First lines
If Might made Right, life were a wild-beasts' cage; If Right made Might, this were the golden age; But now, until we win the long campaign Right must gain Might to conquer and to reign.
July 1, 1915.
What this Textopian page supports
Might and Right (the Trial as by Fire) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1900 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Political, Historical
- Length: 56 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Might and Right (the Trial as by Fire) by Henry Van Dyke
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Libertatis Sacra Fames by Oscar Wilde
- The Four Favours by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
- Urbs Sacra Aeterna by Oscar Wilde
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its message.
- Philosophical — The text explores abstract concepts of power and morality, engaging with philosophical themes.
- Political — The content reflects on societal structures and the dynamics of power, indicating a political dimension.
- Historical — The date and context suggest a reflection on historical events or periods, particularly around 1915.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Moral Allegory · Trial by Fire · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Social Commentary · Morality Play · Fable · Satire · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Existential Crisis