The Red Badge of Courage

Set during the American Civil War, the novel explores the psychological journey of a young soldier named Henry Fleming as he grapples with fear, courage, and the harsh realities of battle. Initially filled with romantic notions of war, Henry's experiences on the front lines lead him to confront his own cowardice and the struggle for personal redemption. Through vivid imagery and introspective narrative, the book delves into themes of bravery, the loss of innocence, and the complexities of human emotion in the face of conflict.