On the Mountain by James Baldwin
The story revolves around a young black man who returns to his hometown after serving time in prison for murder. He is met with hostility and suspicion by the community, which has been torn apart by racial tensions and violence. The protagonist's presence serves as a catalyst for the town's dark secrets and prejudices to surface, leading to a violent confrontation that ultimately results in tragedy.
By James Baldwin · First published 1956 · Genre: Religious, Philosophical, Inspirational · 853 words
First lines
And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him; and he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God.
What this Textopian page supports
On the Mountain is listed on Textopian as a short story by James Baldwin, dated 1956 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: James Baldwin
- Date: 1956 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious, Philosophical, Inspirational
- Length: 853 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for On the Mountain by James Baldwin
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering On the Mountain?
- How does this short story by James Baldwin fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Glimpse Of The World by James Baldwin
- The Wanderer by James Baldwin
- The Boy by Ranier Maria Rilke
- Casabianca by James Baldwin
- A Voyage On The Sea by James Baldwin
- A Lesson In Humility by James Baldwin
Genres
- Religious — The text is a direct excerpt from the Gospel according to St. Matthew, containing teachings attributed to Jesus.
- Philosophical — The content explores moral and ethical teachings, encouraging reflection on human behavior and values.
- Inspirational — The teachings aim to inspire and guide individuals towards a virtuous and fulfilling life.
Tags
Coming-of-age · Social commentary · Racial tension · Identity crisis · Family dynamics · Moral ambiguity · Existentialism · Philosophical themes · Psychological insight · Cultural critique · Historical context · American literature