At Large - One Temper
Story Summary
In "At Large - One Temper," a turbulent individual is on trial for assault with intent to commit murder after wreaking havoc in town. The defendant's Attorney attempts to lighten the proceedings by asking the Judge if he has ever lost his temper, resulting in a fine for contempt of court, to which the Attorney humorously replies that perhaps his client has found the Judge's lost temper. This short story offers a meaningful exploration of anger and accountability, reminiscent of famous fables with moral lessons.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The story illustrates that losing one's temper can lead to judgment and consequences, both for oneself and others.
Historical Context
This story reflects a blend of humor and social commentary typical in American literature of the late 19th to early 20th centuries, particularly in the genre of courtroom satire. Its style and tone are reminiscent of the works of Mark Twain and other writers who critiqued legal absurdities and social norms, often highlighting the folly of human behavior within the judicial system. The use of wit in the courtroom setting underscores the tension between authority and the often-comedic failures of the legal process.
Our Editors Opinion
This story highlights the importance of self-control and accountability in modern life, reminding us that losing our temper can lead to serious consequences, both for ourselves and those around us. For example, in a heated workplace dispute, a manager who reacts impulsively to criticism may not only damage professional relationships but also face disciplinary action, reflecting the chaos that can ensue when tempers flare without restraint.
You May Also Like
The Tried Assassin
In "The Tried Assassin," a courtroom drama unfolds as an assassin stands trial in a New England court. His counsel argues for dismissal based on a previous acquittal in California, invoking the principle of "once in jeopardy." However, the judge denies the motion, stating that an assassin is not considered to be in jeopardy when tried in California, allowing the trial to proceed—a reflection of the complexities found in popular moral stories and animal stories with moral lessons.
The No Case
In "The No Case," a statesman humorously challenges the charges against him after being indicted by a Grand Jury, requesting dismissal due to a lack of evidence. He presents a check as proof of this absence, which the District Attorney finds so compelling that he claims it could exonerate anyone, showcasing the wit often found in entertaining moral stories and short tales with moral lessons. This life-changing story highlights the absurdity of justice and the clever use of humor to navigate serious situations.
The Judge and the Rash Act
In this humorous story with a moral, a discontented judge, desperate for recognition and contemplating suicide due to his lackluster career, encounters a ghostly figure known as the "Rash Act." When the figure offers to be committed, the judge declines, insisting that it would be improper to act on such a whim while not serving as a committing magistrate. This quick moral story highlights the absurdity of rigid adherence to duty, making it a fitting addition to short story collections with moral lessons for young readers.
Related Collections
Other names for this story
Tempers Unleashed, The Wrath of Justice, Assault and Anger, Courtroom Chaos, Finding Lost Tempers, The Judge's Fury, Uncontrolled Outbursts, Legal Turbulence
Did You Know?
This story cleverly highlights the absurdity of human behavior and the often unpredictable nature of justice, as the Attorney's attempt to deflect blame humorously backfires, illustrating how emotions can complicate legal proceedings.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.