The Murder of Colonel Stewart of Hartrigge
This novel is a historical crime fiction that takes place in the late 18th century. It revolves around the murder of Colonel Stewart, a wealthy and influential landowner. The story follows the investigation led by a detective who must navigate the complexities of the time period to uncover the truth behind the colonel's death. The narrative explores themes of class, power, and social status as it delves into the lives of the characters involved in the case. Through its detailed descriptions of the era's culture and customs, the novel provides a rich historical context that immerses readers in the world of 18th-century England. As the investigation unfolds, the detective encounters various suspects and motives, each with their own secrets and lies. The novel builds tension as the truth begins to emerge, leading to a surprising conclusion that challenges the reader's assumptions about the case. Throughout the story, the author masterfully weaves together historical facts and fictional elements to create a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged until the very end.
By John Lang · First published 1827 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Crime, Drama · 2,099 words
First lines
Since a time long prior to the Raid of the Redeswire -- when on Caterfell the rallying cry, "Jethart's here," fell like sweetest music on the ears of a sore-pressed little band of armed Scots, fighting for their lives, and giving back sullenly before superior English strength -- the worst enemies of Jedburgh have never been able to taunt her with apathy, or with want of strenuousness. In the fighting of days long gone by, in questions social or political of more modern times, lack of zeal has not been one of her characteristics; nor, perhaps, in past times have her inhabitants, or those resident in the district, been conspicuous for tolerance of the religious or political convictions of neighbours who might chance not to see eye to eye with them in such matters.
What this Textopian page supports
The Murder of Colonel Stewart of Hartrigge is listed on Textopian as a short story by John Lang, dated 1827 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: John Lang
- Date: 1827 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Crime, Drama, Literary Fiction, Biographical
- Length: 2,099 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Murder of Colonel Stewart of Hartrigge by John Lang
- 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 The Murder of Colonel Stewart of Hartrigge?
- How does this short story by John Lang fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Swartz Diamond by Edward William Thomson
- Dawn Music by Egerton Castle
- Parting Of The Ways by Egerton Castle
- The Disowned Book Vi by Edward Bulwer Lytton
- The Homing Bird by Egerton Castle
- The Pride Of Jennico by Egerton Castle
Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a specific historical context, exploring events and social dynamics of 18th century Scotland.
- Crime — The central plot revolves around a murder, detailing the circumstances and consequences of the act.
- Drama — The story features intense interpersonal conflicts and emotional confrontations among characters.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style emphasizes character development and thematic depth, focusing on moral and social issues.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Crime Novel · Mystery · Thriller · Adventure · Romance · Victorian Era · English Literature · 19th Century · Colonialism · Imperialism · Scotland