Red Badge of Courage

December 2, 2001

During the course of Stephen Crane's novel "The Red Badge of Courage," the main character, Henry, like most young people, changes through constant self-development. Henry's character, perceptions, and beliefs alter many times as the circumstances of life fluctuate around him. Henry is changed from an unsure young boy to someone searching for his true self, only later to realize that in time his character will be revealed on its own.

In the beginning of the novel, Henry is constantly worried about what his actions will be and whether he will instinctively fight bravely or run selfishly. These fears haunt him incessantly. He is in constant fear of battle, while at the same time longing for an end to the speculation. He tries to learn as much as he can about war and himself, but can come to no definite resolution. He is always fearing the true test, the moment he must fight. "The supreme trials..."

When his first battle comes, he deserts. After he deserts, he feels as though he has failed his personal test of manhood. But soon he begins to try to explain his actions as though he were above the "mindless" soldiers and that his running only further proved his mental superiority. He begins to pity these slaughtered men for the very thing for which he longed deep inside, the courage to be selfless and the opportunity to have a sense of duty and purpose. "...He felt pity for the guns, standing, six good comrades, in a bold row."

Fate leads Henry to his opportunity. Forced into battle, he finally realizes what is truly inside of him when he does not over-analyze every action or mistrust himself as before. Finally, he sees what was driving those once "mindless" soldiers that he saw before. He feels the drive and will, the need for victory that makes a soldier go on. "He had taken up a first position...with a direct determination to hold it against the world." He experiences the joys and pain of loss and triumph.

Henry is forced to have his nature tested during the time when young people try to find themselves. The combination creates a deep self-mistrust in him. He persecutes himself readily and excessively, and as a result cannot face the test. He is forced to rescue himself using his own devices. But, with a little help from circumstance, he is given the opportunity to prove his true nature to himself and others. His true character is revealed on its own.