Other editions of book The Red Badge of Courage

The Red Badge of Courage is an 1895 war novel by American author Stephen Crane. It is considered one of the most influential works in American literature. The novel, a depiction on the cruelty of the American Civil War, features a young recruit who overcomes initial fears to become a hero on the battlefield. The book made Crane an international success. Although he was born after the war and had not at the time experienced battle firsthand, the novel is considered an example of Realism.

The Red Badge of Courage is a war novel by American author Stephen Crane (1871–1900). Taking place during the American Civil War, the story is about a young private of the Union Army, Henry Fleming, who flees from the field of battle. Overcome with shame, he longs for a wound, a "red badge of courage," to counteract his cowardice. When his regiment once again faces the enemy, Henry acts as standard-bearer.

More the story of the battle that rages within one soldier than the battle between Confederate and Union soldiers, The Red Badge of Courage established Stephen Crane's place in American literature and remains his most popular work. With no idea of the horrors of war, young Henry Fleming has romantic notions of the hero he will be. But when he enters his first battle his illusions are destroyed. Fighting for his life and scared, Henry must make a decision: run or stay.

Henry Fleming is an ordinary farm boy turned soldier, with romantic notions about the glory of war. But, as the tedium of his regiment's encampment without action provides ample time for self-reflection, disquieting thoughts begin to prey upon his mind: doubts as to whether, in combat, he will stand his ground valiantly - or flee ignominiously. Then the regiment receives orders to march, and Henry finds himself flung into the maelstrom of battle. Amidst the blood, the acrid smoke, and the unworldly wails of the dying, his courage will be put to the ultimate test...