The Hen by Saki (1914)
The narrative revolves around a domestic conflict between two women, Dora and Jane, sparked by a problematic hen sold by Dora to Jane. The hen, intended to be a prize poultry investment, fails to produce eggs, leading to a bitter exchange of letters filled with insults. Clovis, Mrs. Sangrail's son, observes the escalating tension and suggests that he might intervene to resolve the situation, although he is skeptical about the possibility of reconciliation. As Clovis discusses the matter with Jane, he expresses his disdain for long-serving servants, particularly Sturridge, the butler, who has developed peculiar delusions. Clovis reveals that Sturridge believes Jane is the reincarnation of Queen Anne, which complicates matters further. Sturridge's fixation on Jane's supposed identity leads him to act strangely, including glowering at her and muttering ominously. Despite Jane's initial dismissal of the situation, Clovis becomes increasingly concerned for her safety, especially after witnessing Sturridge's unsettling behavior. Jane, however, is determined to stay and not cut her visit short, even in the face of potential danger. Clovis devises a plan to discreetly remove Jane from the house without alarming his mother, who relies on Sturridge's service. In a final twist, Clovis successfully orchestrates Jane's departure by distracting Sturridge and facilitating her quick exit. However, the resolution is bittersweet as Dora's visit is postponed, leaving Clovis with a sense of accomplishment for having managed to navigate the domestic chaos, albeit temporarily. The story highlights themes of social rivalry, the absurdity of human relationships, and the unpredictable nature of domestic life.
By Saki · First published 1914 · Genre: Comedy, Satire, Fiction · 2,302 words
First lines
"Dora Bittholz is coming on Thursday," said Mrs. Sangrail.
"This next Thursday? " asked Clovis.
What this Textopian page supports
The Hen is listed on Textopian as a short story by Saki, dated 1914 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Saki
- Date: 1914 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Comedy, Satire, Fiction, Social Commentary, Short Story
- Length: 2,302 words
- Structure: 1 section, 65 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Hen by Saki
- 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 Hen?
- How does this short story by Saki fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Comedy first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Boar Pig by Saki
- Excepting Mrs Pentherby by Saki
- The Talking Out Of Tarrington by Saki
- A Matter Of Sentiment by Saki
- The Stampeding Of Lady Bastable by Saki
- The Seventh Pullet by Saki
Genres
- Comedy — The story employs humor and wit, particularly through the interactions and misunderstandings between characters.
- Satire — It critiques social norms and human behavior, particularly the absurdity of social rivalries and the triviality of the characters' conflicts.
- Fiction — The narrative is a work of fiction, presenting a fictional scenario and characters.
- Social Commentary — The plot reflects on social dynamics and relationships, particularly among the upper class.
Tags
satire · humor · short story · animal · society · class · irony · absurdity · nature · domestic life · character study · dialogue