Using only Stephen Crane's novel, the Red Badge of Courage, explain how he felt about war.

Didn't he like it because it was glorious and it made boys turn into men?

Have you read the entire work? After you've finished reading it, please let us know what you think.

=)

I have read the book, and I wasn't sure. In the end Henry is a man, so wouldn't the author think war is good? How does the author say it's bad?

http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/redbadge/themes.html

Be sure you read this section on Themes, Motifs, and Symbols -- don't skip anything.

This reminds me of folks who sin and sin because they think they read that God loves sinners. Not really critical reading.

Stephen Crane was hardly a advocate of brutal and violent maturation. If he were here commenting on Iraq in these days, he would be labeled a phoney soldier, a gutless coward, or a traitor. Such are these times.
Crane did not present the Red Badge as something to seek and of which to be proud.

In my opinion.

To understand Stephen Crane's perspective on war as depicted in his novel, "The Red Badge of Courage," we need to closely analyze the text and explore the author's use of literary elements. The novel provides a complex and nuanced portrayal of war, challenging traditional notions of its glory and heroic transformation.

Throughout the book, Crane explores the psychological and emotional journey of the protagonist, Henry Fleming. At the beginning of the novel, Henry romanticizes war, believing it will provide him an opportunity to prove his courage and transform into a hero. However, as he experiences the reality and brutality of battle, his initial romantic notions begin to crumble.

Crane uses vivid and detailed descriptions to depict the chaos, confusion, and fear felt by the soldiers on the battlefield. The horrors of war are depicted through Henry's perspective, highlighting the devastating consequences and existential crises it creates. The author portrays war as a relentless, dehumanizing force that challenges the very core of one's identity.

Furthermore, Crane explores themes of cowardice, isolation, and disillusionment. Henry struggles with his own fear and self-doubt, questioning his ability to be brave in the face of danger. As he witnesses the deaths of comrades and endures the traumatic experiences of war, he begins to confront the realities of its brutality and the loss of innocence.

Crane's depiction of war in "The Red Badge of Courage" suggests a critical and skeptical view. He highlights the grim and gritty aspects of battle, challenging the glorification of war and the romanticized notions that it can turn boys into men. Instead of celebrating war, Crane emphasizes the psychological toll it takes on individuals and questions the true nature of bravery and heroism.

In summary, Stephen Crane's perspective on war as evident in "The Red Badge of Courage" is far from glorifying or endorsing it. Rather, he critiques the idealized notions of heroism and transformation, portraying war as a brutal and traumatizing experience that challenges individuals morally, emotionally, and existentially.