An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge Group

Question:

laneybriggs
laneybriggs
Student
High School - 10th Grade

Why is it significant that "circumstances of an imperious nature, which is unnecessary to relate here, had prevented him from taking service with...

the gallant army... and he chafed under the inglorious restraint, longing for the release of his energies, the larger life of the soldier, then opportunity for distinction." Look up the word "imperious" and note the multiple meanings. Do you think Bierce had a specific reason for this particular word choice? Evaluate.

Rate question:

Posted by laneybriggs on Thursday October 8, 2009 at 6:13 PM and tagged with an, an occurance at owl creek bridge, an occurrence at owl creek bridge, at, bierce, bridge, chafed, choice, circumstances, creek, energies, gallant, imperious, inglorious, nature, occurance, owl, restraint, significant, specific, unnecessary, word.

Answers:

  1. bullgatortail
    bullgatortail Teacher
    High School - 12th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    Bierce no doubt chose the word "imperious" with forethought, and it apparently describes Peyton Farquar accurately. Since imperious can be defined as "showing arrogant superiority" and disdain for those considered unworthy, these descriptions probably fit Farquar's opinion of Union soldiers and Union sympathizers living near his home in Northern Alabama. Imperious also denotes a regal standing, and as a plantation owner, Farquar probably also held that distinction.

    As for "the inglorious restraint," it is obvious that Farquar wished to serve in the Confederate army, but he was instead convinced that his services would be more useful as a spy.

    Rate answer:

    Posted by bullgatortail on Thursday October 8, 2009 at 6:39 PM