"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." - The Wall Street Journal "It is a tour de force of no mean proportions... so amusing are his unexpected turns of caustic humor, so brilliant his flagitious wit." - The New York Times One of the sharpest and most original works of American satire, The Devil's Dictionary transforms the familiar form of a dictionary into a brilliant exercise in wit and irony. Journalist and writer Ambrose Bierce redefines everyday words with biting humor, exposing the hypocrisies of society, politics, religion, and human nature. Each entry offers a concise definition charged with irony and dark humor, turning ordinary language into a vehicle for satire. Bierce's sardonic observations remain as fresh and provocative today as when they first appeared, making this work a cornerstone of American literary humor. This illustrated edition features a clear, easy-to-read layout and includes 26 illustrations by Gustave Doré, whose dramatic and imaginative artwork provides a striking visual counterpart to Bierce's satirical vision. Excerpt: CANNON, n. An instrument employed in the rectification of national boundaries. MARRIAGE, n. The state or condition of a community consisting of a master, a mistress and two slaves, making in all, two. RELIGION, n. A daughter of Hope and Fear, explaining to Ignorance the nature of the Unknowable. RUBBISH, n. Worthless matter, such as the religions, philosophies, literatures, arts and sciences of the tribes infesting the regions lying due south from Boreaplas. YOUTH, n. The Period of Possibility, when Archimedes finds a fulcrum, Cassandra has a following and seven cities compete for the honor of endowing a living Homer.