The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines courage as “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty” (113). Throughout history, war has tested man’s courage. The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane tells the story of a young Union Army soldier named Henry Fleming during the American Civil War. Henry enters the war in hopes of gaining the reputation of a brave, valiant man. He does not particularly care about his fellow soldiers or what he is fighting for. He simply romanticizes the war as an opportunity to become a hero. Throughout the novel, Fleming grows and matures, learning the essence of manhood. Though Henry Fleming originally flees from battle, he ultimately proves that he is a courageous young man.
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With the boredom and treachery of camp life, the protagonist begins to question his courage. It had suddenly “appeared to [Henry] that perhaps in a battle he might run” (10). He then convinces himself that “he was not formed for a soldier” (18). Frightened and overwhelmed, Henry finally decides to flee from battle, becoming like “the man who lost his legs at the approach of the red and green monster” (40). In order to justify his action, he assures himself that he preserved his life in the best interest of the army. Henry later becomes very ashamed, branding himself as “the most unutterably selfish man in existence”
With the boredom and treachery of camp life, the protagonist begins to question his courage. It had suddenly “appeared to [Henry] that perhaps in a battle he might run” (10). He then convinces himself that “he was not formed for a soldier” (18). Frightened and overwhelmed, Henry finally decides to flee from battle, becoming like “the man who lost his legs at the approach of the red and green monster” (40). In order to justify his action, he assures himself that he preserved his life in the best interest of the army. Henry later becomes very ashamed, branding himself as “the most unutterably selfish man in existence”