The theme of maturity being reached through experience is indeed prevalent in The Red Badge of Courage. This can be seen through the character development of Henry Fleming, the protagonist of the novel. While it can be argued whether Henry has truly reached maturity by the end of the book, there are three major events that contribute to his growth.
Event 1: Battle of Chancellorsville
During this battle, Henry initially flees from the battlefield. However, he later returns and witnesses the death of his friend Jim Conklin. This event shakes Henry to his core and forces him to confront the reality of war. It is through this experience that Henry begins to question his own courage and understand the complexity of bravery.
Example 1: "He suddenly lost concern for himself, and forgot to look at a menacing fate. He became possessed of a passion to make the regiment do what he had failed to do. It was his ambition to force it to swing immediately about and make a hurried and fruitful rush upon the guns" (Chapter 5). This passage shows Henry's growth as he shifts his focus from self-preservation to the well-being of his comrades, displaying maturity in his newfound sense of responsibility.
Event 2: Retreat from the Battle
Following a failed charge, the Union forces retreat. During this chaos, Henry becomes separated from his regiment and desperately tries to find his way back to safety. It is during this time that he encounters wounded soldiers who share their stories of courage and sacrifice. These encounters open his eyes to the bravery of others and make him question his own actions.
Example 2: "He admitted that he would not be able to cope with this monster. He felt that every nerve in his body would be an ear to hear the voices, while other soldiers were not, at this time, aware that they had nerves at all" (Chapter 15). This inner reflection signifies Henry's growth in his ability to empathize with others and understand the impact of war on individuals.
Event 3: Leading the Charge
In the final battle, Henry takes charge and leads his regiment in a successful charge against the enemy. During this time, he displays acts of bravery and earns the respect of his comrades. This event showcases Henry's transformation from an unsure and cowardly youth to a leader willing to take risks for the sake of his fellow soldiers.
Example 3: "His face was lighted with battle fervor. He swung his hat with a fierce gesture and shouted aloud as if he expected the rest of the regiment to join him. He looked swiftly about. The youthful lieutenant was gasping with one of the wounded cheeks held in a bloody hand" (Chapter 24). This passage demonstrates Henry's newfound confidence and his ability to inspire others, further emphasizing his growth.
In my opinion, while Henry has certainly shown growth and development throughout the novel, he may not have fully reached maturity by the end. The events he experiences force him to confront the reality of war and question his own courage, leading to personal growth. However, Henry still displays moments of doubt and hesitation, suggesting that he may not have completely matured. For example, his internal struggle and fear of being seen as a coward resurface at times. Additionally, his willingness to lead the charge demonstrates bravery, but it can also be seen as an impulsive decision rather than a calculated act of maturity.
One possible theme of The Red Badge of Courage could
be that maturity is reached by experience. Do you think
that Henry has reached maturity by the end of the book?
Name three major events that contribute to Henry’s
growth. Support your opinion about Henry’s maturity with
two examples.
Your answer should contain the following:
full explanation of this theme and supporting
examples from the text;
three major events that contribute to Henry’s
growth; and
your reasoned opinion with two examples on
whether or not Henry has reached maturity
1 answer