The Holy Night by Selma Lagerlof
The story revolves around a young girl who lives with her cruel and abusive stepmother. The girl's father has abandoned the family, leaving them to suffer under his wife's tyranny. One night, the girl discovers that she can see into another world where people are living in poverty and suffering. She learns that this is the world of the poor and that it exists alongside her own world. The girl decides to help those in need by secretly giving away food and clothing from her stepmother's household. However, her actions are soon discovered, and she is punished severely for her defiance. Despite the hardships, the girl continues to help those in need, and eventually, her kindness inspires others to do the same. The story highlights the importance of compassion and empathy towards those who are less fortunate.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1907 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Fantasy, Children's Literature · 2,178 words
First lines
When I was five years old I had such a great sorrow! I hardly know if I have had a greater since.
It was then my grandmother died. Up to that time, she used to sit every day on the corner sofa in her room, and tell stories.
What this Textopian page supports
The Holy Night is listed on Textopian as a short story by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1907 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Selma Lagerlof
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Fiction, Fantasy, Children's Literature, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
- Length: 2,178 words
- Structure: 1 section, 46 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Holy Night by Selma Lagerlof
- 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 Holy Night?
- How does this short story by Selma Lagerlof fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- In Nazareth by Selma Lagerlof
- The Flight Into Egypt by Selma Lagerlof
- The Emperors Vision by Selma Lagerlof
- The Kings Grave by Selma Lagerlof
- A Story From Jerusalem by Selma Lagerlof
- Bethlehems Children by Selma Lagerlof
Genres
- Religious Fiction — The narrative centers around the birth of Jesus and explores themes of compassion, redemption, and divine presence.
- Fantasy — The story incorporates elements of the supernatural, such as angels and miraculous events, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
- Children's Literature — The storytelling style and themes are suitable for a younger audience, focusing on moral lessons and wonder.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and context reflect a historical period, providing a backdrop for the narrative of Jesus' birth.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Swedish Literature · Nobel Prize Winner · Christmas Story · Family Drama · Coming of Age · Social Commentary · Poverty and Suffering · Hope and Redemption · Small Town Life · Community Spirit · Faith and Belief