The Red Badge of Courage
Overview & Summary
Young Union soldier Henry Fleming flees in terror during his first Civil War battle, and the novel follows his psychological struggle with cowardice, shame, and the desire to prove his courage as he eventually returns to combat determined to earn his own "red badge." Stephen Crane's 1895 novel, written by an author who had never experienced combat himself, is renowned for its vivid, unflinching depiction of the psychological reality of battle.
Available Formats
- Audiobook
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Who This Book Is For
A great pick for Middle school students (Grades 6–8) studying History and Humanities. Helps students connect historical events with real human stories and broader perspectives.
Why CE Recommends This Book
A foundational Classic text. Reading canonical literature builds deep comprehension, exposes students to mature writing styles, and prepares them to write thoughtful essays and participate in classroom discussions.
