Illustration of Henry Fleming in a soldier's uniform in front of a confederate flag and an American flag

The Red Badge of Courage

by Stephen Crane

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Student Question

What did a soldier attempt to steal from a civilian in "The Red Badge of Courage"?

Quick answer:

In "The Red Badge of Courage," a soldier attempts to steal a horse from a civilian. The soldier, described as rather fat, plans to use the horse to carry his knapsack. However, a young girl confronts him, fiercely defending the animal. The regiment, entertained by the spectacle, supports the girl, leading to the soldier's retreat without the horse. The girl is celebrated for her defiance against the soldier's attempt.

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One of the solidiers attempts to steal a horse from a civilian.

Soon after the regiment begins its march to parts unknown, the mood of the men changes.  Happy to be moving at last, the men are in high spirits, and "blithe and merry speeches...(go) from rank to rank".  Henry observes that the men seem to have forgotten their mission; "whole brigades (grin) in unison, and regiments (laugh)".  In the atmosphere of giddy exuberance, "a rather fat soldier (attempts) to pilfer a horse from a dooryard...(he plans) to load his knapsack upon it".  A young girl rushes out of the house grabs the animal's mane, and a scuffle ensues.  The young girl, "with pink cheeks and shining eyes", is obdurate in her defense of the horse; she hangs on "like a dauntless statue.  The regiment, amused, whoops by the side of the road, entering the confrontation verbally "whole-souled upon the side of the maiden".  When the fat soldier finally retreats without the horse, "loud and vociferous congratulations (are) showered upon the maiden, who (stands) panting and regarding the troops with defiance" (Part 1, Chapter 2).

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