Fatout’s biography attempts to interpret Ambrose Bierce's character in the light of present-day psychology, particularly the psychology of childhood and adolescence. As the Bierce twig was bent, so was the tree inclined; and recognition of his mixed traits develops the thesis that he was neither saint nor monster, but a man, and a harried, vexed, demon-ridden man at that. A strict Calvinistic upbringing, a marriage ruined by mother-in-law, a failure to achieve greatness—all these things contributed to the man he was.
Author: Paul Fatout
Title: Ambrose Bierce: The Devil’s Lexicographer
Edition: First Edition, first printing
Published: Norman, OK: University of Oklahoma Press, 1951
Physical Description: Hardcover; Octavo; 349p
Condition: Good condition dust jacket with edge wear, light chipping, and toning—in new protector. Boards and spine very clean with edge wear, bumping to corners, and crushing at spine ends. Binding sturdy and square. Pages toned. Owner’s name on front end-paper.
Comments: Scarce copy
