The Red Badge of Courage · Chapter
XIII explained
Henry returns to his regiment after being wounded, where he is met with unexpected kindness from Wilson and the corporal.
What happens
Henry returns to his regiment after being wounded, where he is met with unexpected kindness from Wilson and the corporal. They tend to his head wound, give him coffee, and provide a blanket for sleep. Henry reflects on the exhausted, sleeping soldiers around him and finds comfort in the camaraderie he receives.
Themes in this chapter
Comradeship and Isolation
Henry expects ridicule but instead receives unexpected kindness and care from Wilson and the corporal, highlighting the bond among soldiers.
Shame and Guilt
Henry feels shame about his desertion and fabricates a story about being separated in battle, reflecting his internal guilt.
Characters to notice
- Henry Fleming
Returns to the regiment wounded and exhausted, receives care from Wilson and the corporal.
- Wilson
The loud soldier who warmly greets Henry, tends to his wound, and gives him his blanket and canteen.
- the corporal
Simpson, who helps lead Henry to the fire and examines his head wound.
Key passages
“He had a conviction that he would soon feel in his sore heart the barbed missiles of ridicule.”
He believed his comrades would mock him harshly.
Henry's fear of being ridiculed for his absence.
“The youth found that now he could barely stand upon his feet. There was a sudden sinking of his forces.”
Henry suddenly felt too weak to stand.
Physical exhaustion and injury overwhelm Henry upon reaching safety.
“The loud young soldier watched his comrade with an air of satisfaction. He later produced an extensive handkerchief from his pocket.”
Wilson looked pleased and then took out a large handkerchief.
Wilson's pride in his makeshift nursing.