Author(s): Ambrose Bierce

Classic Fiction

Initial reception of the book versions was mixed. In the decades following, however, the stature of The Devil's Dictionary increased. It has been widely quoted, frequently translated, and often imitated, earning a global reputation. In the 1970s, The Devil's Dictionary was named as one of "The 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature" by the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration. Wall Street Journal columnist Jason Zweig said The Devil's Dictionary is "... probably the most brilliant work of satire written in America. And maybe one of the greatest in all of world literature.