Symbolism Of The Spy By Longstreet

Since the spy is riding at night and near a picket fence of Confederate guards, there is a risk of him being shot on sight. When he is received by the sergeant, he is placed under guard and escorted to Longstreet’s headquarters. Other Confederates, like Sorrel, do not approve of the use of spies. The spy is first met by Longstreet, and it’s evident that Longstreet becomes hesitant to believe his story. As the spy explains more of the Union army and its position, Longstreet asks him what he knows of the Confederate Army’s position as well. It startles him to hear that the spy 's prediction of the Confederate layout is exact to their plans, and it verifies the spy 's word a little more. The spy explains how close the opposition is and how …show more content…
He earned this recognition after his demonstration of great military skill in the Mexican War and earlier battles in the Civil War. After several states seceded from the Union, Lee was offered the rank of brigadier general by the Southern Confederacy, and was offered to lead a group of volunteers against the rebellion by his former commander. When his native state of Virginia seceded, Lee could not bring himself to fight against his home-state; he chose to resign from his position in the Union and became general for the Confederacy. The people love and admire him because he chose to fight for his Virginia state home over working with the Union. Although he did not believe in secession, Lee possessed so much loyalty to his home. Personally, I like General Lee. At this point in the war, Lee has been leading the men to victory in many battles. His faith in the cause and belief in his men demonstrate how great of a leader he is. As the readers we know that the spy is telling the truth, but Lee is not aware of this and has to go by his word. I agree with Lee’s hesitation to believe the spy over the word of his men, specifically Stuart. Lee has confidence in his men and faith that they will come through for him every …show more content…
On the day before the battle, Buford evaluates the land and envisions the battle before it occurs. He can see the way it will end if the Confederacy takes advantage of the high ground. He Buford also knows that Reynold’s infantry is behind him, only “a day’s march away” (Shaara 34). After watching the Confederate infantry movements, he deduces that “they don’t know who we are or how many. Which means they have no cavalry, no eyes” (Shaara 36). With this information in mind, he decides to send word to Reynolds that they have occupied Gettysburg and need back up. Buford decides on that day, and the next to have his men “dig in” to prepare to fight. He knows that they can only hold for a limited amount of time before the opposition overtakes them. He never had his men stop or give up their high ground positions. By not allowing Confederate forces to gain the upper hand, Buford may be the reason the battle eventually ends in the Union’s