The Autobiography of Mark Twain · Chapter
The Chicago G.A.R. Festival explained
Mark Twain recounts his experiences at the Chicago G.A.R.
What happens
Mark Twain recounts his experiences at the Chicago G.A.R. Festival in 1879, where General Grant was honored by the Army of the Tennessee. He describes his first meetings with Grant and Sheridan, the grand banquet, and his famous 'Babies' speech. The narrative focuses on the atmosphere of the event, the oratory of Colonel Vilas and Bob Ingersoll, and the reactions of a young private soldier.
Themes in this chapter
The American Experience
The chapter captures a moment of national unity and celebration of military service, reflecting post-Civil War American society.
Character and Morality
Twain's observations of General Grant's demeanor and the private's emotional reaction highlight themes of character, humility, and heroism.
Characters to notice
- Mark Twain
Narrator and speaker at the banquet, delivering the 'Babies' toast.
- Ulysses S. Grant
Guest of honor at the festival; Twain recalls meeting him in 1866 and 1879, and their exchange about embarrassment.
- Bob Ingersoll
Orator who responded to the toast 'The Volunteers'; his speech moved the audience and a young private.
- General Sheridan
Mentioned in Twain's speech regarding his twins; first seen by Twain in 1866.
- General Sherman
Present at the banquet, seated on the dais with other generals.
Key passages
“I am not embarrassed. Are you?”
General Grant turned Twain's own earlier question back on him, showing he remembered their first awkward meeting.
Grant's witty retort during their reintroduction at the Chicago festival.
“Egod! He didn’t get left!”
The private exclaimed with relief that Bob Ingersoll's speech was not overshadowed by Vilas's performance.
The private's emotional reaction after Ingersoll's successful speech.