Active Service by Stephen Crane

Name: Active Service
Author: Stephen Crane

The narrative follows a group of characters, primarily focusing on a young woman named Marjory and her father, Professor Wainwright, as they navigate the complexities of love, ambition, and the backdrop of war. Marjory is pursued by Rufus Coleman, a Sunday editor with a questionable reputation, which her father vehemently opposes. The professor's disdain for Coleman stems from his perception of the man as a gambler and a failure, leading to a conflict between father and daughter regarding Marjory's future. As the story unfolds, the Wainwright family embarks on a journey to Greece, where they become embroiled in the chaos of the Greco-Turkish War. Coleman, initially motivated by personal ambition and the desire to prove himself, is tasked with finding and rescuing the Wainwrights after they venture into dangerous territory. The narrative explores themes of heroism, the nature of love, and the impact of war on personal relationships. Coleman's character evolves from a self-serving journalist to a determined rescuer, driven by his feelings for Marjory. The tension between the characters escalates as they confront the realities of war, with Coleman ultimately risking his life to save Marjory and her family. The story culminates in a series of dramatic encounters, revealing the complexities of human emotions amidst the backdrop of conflict. Throughout the work, the characters grapple with their identities, societal expectations, and the consequences of their choices, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of love and sacrifice in the face of adversity. The narrative concludes with a sense of resolution, as the characters come to terms with their experiences and the bonds that have been forged through their trials.

By Stephen Crane · First published 1903 · Genre: War Fiction, Realism, Historical Fiction · 30 chapters · 92,323 words

First lines

MARJORY walked pensively along the hall. In the cool shadows made by the palms on the window ledge, her face wore the expression of thoughtful melancholy expected on the faces of the devotees who pace in cloistered gloom. She halted before a door at the end of the hall and laid her hand on the knob. She stood hesitating, her head bowed. It was evident that this mission was to require great fortitude.

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Active Service is listed on Textopian as a novel by Stephen Crane, dated 1903 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Stephen Crane
Date: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: War Fiction, Realism, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Psychological Fiction
Length: 92,323 words
Structure: 30 chapters, 1,322 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

War Fiction — The novel explores the experiences of soldiers during wartime, focusing on the psychological and physical impacts of war.
Realism — The writing style emphasizes a realistic portrayal of life and the complexities of human emotions in the context of war.
Historical Fiction — The narrative is set against the backdrop of a specific historical conflict, providing insights into the era's social and political climate.
Literary Fiction — The book employs a sophisticated narrative style and deep character development, characteristic of literary fiction.