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The Red Badge of Courage · Theme
Maturation and Self-Discovery
How The Red Badge of Courage develops Maturation and Self-Discovery.
Henry's journey from a naive, romantic youth who imagines war as glorious to a battle-hardened soldier who gains a quiet, nonassertive manhood and a clearer understanding of his own nature through the crucible of combat.
Where it surfaces
- I
Henry realizes he is an 'unknown quantity' and must learn about himself through the trial of battle.
- XIV
Wilson's transformation from a boastful loud soldier to a humble, confident, and peacemaking man illustrates personal growth and self-discovery.
- XXIV
Henry undergoes a subtle change, gaining a 'quiet manhood, nonassertive but of sturdy and strong blood' and a new ability to see his past actions clearly.