On Thruppenny Bits by Hilaire Belloc
The story revolves around a young boy who discovers that his family's fortunes have been depleted by the father's reckless spending on frivolous items, including thruppenny bits. The boy sets out to save the family from financial ruin by selling these small coins and learning about the value of money.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1906 · Genre: Satire, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction · 2,188 words
First lines
Philip, King of Macedon, destroyer of the liberties of Greece, and father to Alexander who tamed the horse Bucephalus, called for the tutor of that lad, one Aristotle (surnamed the Teacher of the Human Race), to propound to him a question that had greatly troubled him; for in counting out his money (which was his habit upon a washing day, when the Queen's appetite for afternoon tea and honey had rid him of her presence) he discovered mixed with his treasure such an intolerable number of thruppenny bits as very nearly drove him to despair.
What this Textopian page supports
On Thruppenny Bits 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: Satire, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Comedy, Parody
- Length: 2,188 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering On Thruppenny Bits?
- How does this short story by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Satire — The text employs humor and irony to critique societal norms and human behavior, particularly through the exaggerated dialogue between historical figures.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical context, featuring real historical figures like King Philip and Aristotle, albeit in a fictionalized scenario.
- Philosophical Fiction — The dialogue explores philosophical themes, such as the value and utility of objects, through the character of Aristotle.
- Comedy — The text contains comedic elements, including absurd situations and witty exchanges, to entertain the reader.
Tags
Satirical Essay · Social Commentary · Poetry Collection · Humor · Irony · Critique of Society · Class Satire · Economic Commentary · Financial Satire · British Literature · 20th Century Literature · Literary Nonfiction