Realities of War Lesson

As we've studied, the Civil War loomed large in the minds of Americans during the second half of the 19^th century. Many writers tried to capture the atrocities of war, and Ambrose Bierce was among them.

Bierce (1842-1914) served in the Union Army during the Civil War, fought heroically, and was promoted to lieutenant. After a head wound at the Battle of Kennesaw in 1864, he left the Army and took a job at The San Francisco Examiner. As a journalist, Bierce earned the nickname "Bitter Bierce" because of his biting wit about life and criticism of politicians and leaders of his day in his column, "The Prattle."

Throughout his life, Bierce continued to travel to battle regions as a journalist reporting on conflicts firsthand, including during the Mexican Revolutionary War. He was last seen in 1913 traveling with rebel troops in Mexico, after which he mysteriously disappeared. To read his final words in a letter to his niece, Lora, click the link below.

Ambrose Bierce - Final Letter Text Link

"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" by Ambrose Bierce

Labeled the greatest American short story by writer Kurt Vonnegut, "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" is Bierce's most famous short story. Bierce used his military experience to present the realities and effects of war, and the story takes place during the Civil War. The protagonist, Peyton Farquhar, is not a soldier, but he does act to influence the outcome of the war, and it is this action for which he is being hanged. The story opens with the protagonist standing on a bridge, his hands tied behind his back, two Union soldiers ready to execute him on command.

Reading Assignment

You will now read "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge." As you read, first notice the amount of detail in Bierce's description that makes it easy to vividly picture every part of each scene. In addition, pay attention to the point of view because it shifts throughout the story. At first, Bierce reports this story like a journalist by just presenting the facts in third-person point of view. Then, Bierce begins to use stream of consciousness to relay the thoughts inside the main character's head as he faces his death. As you read, consider why Bierce decided to tell the story this way. Do you find this confusing, or does it help create suspense?

To help you further identify the literary elements present in "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," use the handout provided below. Remember that the climax occurs toward the end of a story.

"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" Text Link

Short Story Elements Handout

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