Lord Calvin by Hilaire Belloc (1906)
The story revolves around a young boy who is the son of a lord and his wife. The father is depicted as being cruel and tyrannical towards his family, while the mother is shown to be weak and submissive. As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that the father's behavior is not just limited to his family but also extends to the rest of society. He is portrayed as a symbol of oppression and tyranny, who uses his power to exploit and dominate others. The story explores themes of class struggle, social justice, and the effects of unchecked power on individuals and society. Through the character of Lord Calvin, the narrative critiques the excesses of the aristocracy and highlights the need for reform and change. Ultimately, the story is a commentary on the social and economic conditions of the time, and serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and privilege.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1906 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Political Commentary · 45 words
First lines
Lord Calvin thought the Bishops should not sit As Peers of Parliament.
And _argued_ it!
In spite of which, for years, and years, and years, They went on sitting with their fellow-peers.
What this Textopian page supports
Lord Calvin is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1906 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1906 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Political Commentary, Historical
- Length: 45 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Lord Calvin by Hilaire Belloc
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Lord Canton by Hilaire Belloc
- Lord Roehampton by Hilaire Belloc
- On The Death Of Mr Fox by Lord Byron
- The Traveller Or A Prospect Of Society by Oliver Goldsmith
- The Double Transformation A Tale by Oliver Goldsmith
- A Green Hand by O. Henry
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter.
- Satire — The content humorously critiques the political influence of bishops in Parliament.
- Political Commentary — The theme revolves around the political role of religious figures in government.
- Historical — The work references historical practices regarding the British Parliament.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Satire · Social Commentary · English Literature · 19th Century Setting · Upper Class Life · Class Satire · Moral Allegory · Fable · Animal Characters · Human Nature · Critique of Society