Never too Late to Read Classics discussion

The Red Badge of Courage is a war novel by American author Stephen Crane (1871–1900). Taking place during the American Civil War, the story is about a young private of the Union Army, Henry Fleming, who flees from the field of battle.

Our Host is our lovely Moderator Rosemarie!

Thank you, Lesle.

I have already finished the book and will enjoy reading your comments.

The main character is a young man, barely out of boyhood, called Henry. We find out about his thoughts and his experiences before, during and after his first experience of a battle.

The author was successful in creating the atmosphere of the battle, even though his use of language was old-fashioned, at times.

As you read the book, pay attention to the changes in Henry's attitude, since this is the basis of the plot of the book.
How does he change as a person? as a soldier?

Do you think the author depicts a realistic picture of the battle?

Today it's the anniversary of birth of Stephen Crane. He was born in 1895.

I noted how young he died. The novel for one to write at such a young age was a great achievement.

I am part way through and think that his concerns regarding his nerve when actually faced with battle are realistic and definitely the chaos of battle and the utter boredom and aimlessness of time between battles is common to war.

Today is Remembrance Day in Canada, where we honour all those who died in wars with the motto Lest We Forget.

In this novel, the author shows us how the civil war affected the soldiers's lives on both sides, so that we could see the face of war in the young man's thoughts and experiences.

I've read a few chapters and really feel for Henry with all his thoughts and worries about his ability to fight.

I really liked the story: I can't say that it gave an accurate picture of a young man's mind in battle, because I've never been a young man in battle; but I can say that it introduced me to a sensation and a sympathy for the confusion and the chaos and the panic of that awful scene in a way I've never felt or understood before. For that I can say, thank you for suggesting this book to me.

The author didn't make any judgements about his behaviour; instead he gave us a glimpse into Henry's mind during the intense few days of his first battle.
I think he succeeded in showing us all different types of men who were fighting as well, on both sides.