The Red Badge of Courage

The narrative immerses readers in the psychological turmoil of a young soldier grappling with his ideals of courage and duty amid the chaos of the American Civil War. Through stream-of-consciousness writing, the protagonist's internal struggles are vividly depicted, showcasing the stark contrast between commanding orders and the brutal realities of battle. Stephen Crane's powerful imagery and descriptive style highlight the intense emotional and psychological effects of warfare, making this novel a seminal work in war literature since its 1895 release.