Summary: The Red Badge of Courage (Stephen Crane)

"The Red Badge of Courage" is a novel written by American author Stephen Crane, published in 1895. The story is set during the American Civil War and follows the experiences of a young soldier named Henry Fleming, who is a member of the Union Army. Here is a summary of the novel:

Henry Fleming, a farm boy from New York, enlists in the Union Army with romanticized notions of glory and heroism in battle. However, as he faces the reality of war, he becomes overwhelmed by fear and self-doubt. He worries about how he will react when confronted with actual combat and whether he will have the courage to stand his ground.

As Henry's regiment marches into battle, he grapples with his inner turmoil. During his first encounter with the enemy, he panics and flees from the battlefield, feeling deep shame. He believes that his fellow soldiers, who have seen him run, will scorn him as a coward.

Over the course of the novel, Henry's internal struggle continues. He encounters wounded soldiers returning from the front lines and begins to feel a growing sense of camaraderie with them. He also witnesses the chaos and brutality of war, which further erodes his romanticized notions of battle.

In a later engagement, Henry redeems himself by displaying bravery and resolve in the face of the enemy. He earns a "red badge of courage" when he is wounded in battle, and this wound becomes a symbol of his newfound bravery. Henry's transformation from a fearful and uncertain youth to a more self-assured soldier is a central theme of the novel.

The novel ends ambiguously, with Henry still facing uncertainties about his future in the army and the lingering effects of his experiences in war. It suggests that the journey to courage and self-discovery is ongoing and complex.

"The Red Badge of Courage" is a classic work of American literature that explores the psychological and emotional toll of war on an individual. It is known for its realistic portrayal of battle and the inner thoughts and struggles of its protagonist, Henry Fleming.