3 Review(s)

Noted as being the first novel to present a realistic view of combat, The Red Badge of Courage questions the cost of war in the face of individual human choice, raising issues of manhood, self-preservation, and respect for human life. Despite having no prior combat experience to draw on, Stephen Crane produced a gripping tale of the American Civil War as seen through the eyes of its young protagonist, soldier Henry Fleming. To this day, The Red Badge of Courage remains a stylistic achievement as well as a penetrating look into the heart and mind of a soldier. This new edition of critical essays examines Crane's work and features an introduction from literary scholar Harold Bloom, a chronology of Crane's life, a bibliography of his works, and an index for quick reference.