The Jest that Failed
This novel revolves around a young woman who returns to her hometown after being away for several years and becomes involved with an old flame. However, their rekindled romance is complicated by the fact that she has been engaged to another man while abroad. The story explores themes of love, loyalty, and identity as the protagonist navigates these complex relationships.
By Lucy Maud Montgomery · First published 1908 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Social Commentary · 2,381 words
First lines
"I think it is simply a disgrace to have a person like that in our class," said Edna Hayden in an injured tone.
"And she doesn't seem a bit ashamed of it, either," said Agnes Walters.
What this Textopian page supports
The Jest that Failed is listed on Textopian as a short story by Lucy Maud Montgomery, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Lucy Maud Montgomery
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Social Commentary, Romance, Drama
- Length: 2,381 words
- Structure: 1 section, 41 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Jest that Failed by Lucy Maud Montgomery
- 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 Jest that Failed?
- How does this short story by Lucy Maud Montgomery fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Parting Of The Ways by Lucy Maud Montgomery
- Charlottes Ladies by Lucy Maud Montgomery
- The Falsoms Christmas Dinner by Lucy Maud Montgomery
- An Invitation Given On Impulse by Lucy Maud Montgomery
- By The Rule Of Contrary by Lucy Maud Montgomery
- Aunt Carolines Silk Dress by Lucy Maud Montgomery
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex themes of social class, acceptance, and personal growth, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Coming-of-Age — The protagonist experiences personal development and social challenges typical of coming-of-age stories.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques social hierarchies and the dynamics of popularity and acceptance in a college setting.
- Romance — There are romantic elements, particularly in the interactions between the protagonist and her male counterpart.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Coming-of-Age · Romance · Canadian Literature · 19th Century Setting · Social Commentary · Family Drama · Young Adult · Literary Fiction · Realistic Fiction · Small-Town Life · Female Protagonist