The Red Badge of Courage · Chapter
XXIII explained
The regiment charges the enemy line.
What happens
The regiment charges the enemy line. Henry Fleming, carrying the flag, leads a frenzied assault. The Union soldiers capture the Confederate flag after a fierce struggle, and several prisoners are taken. Henry and his friend celebrate their victory.
Themes in this chapter
Courage and Cowardice
Henry displays reckless courage during the charge, contrasting with his earlier fears.
Comradeship and Isolation
Henry fights alongside his comrades in a unified, frenzied assault, sharing in the victory.
The Mechanics of War
The chapter details the tactical charge, the clash of lines, and the capture of prisoners and flags.
Characters to notice
- Henry Fleming
Carries the regimental flag, leads the charge, and feels a savage, religion-mad daring.
- Wilson
Henry's friend, jubilant and glorified, captures the enemy flag and celebrates with Henry.
- the colonel
Runs along the back of the line shouting orders to charge.
Key passages
“The youth kept the bright colors to the front. He was waving his free arm in furious circles, the while shrieking mad calls and appeals, urging on those that did not need to be urged.”
Henry held the flag forward, waving his arm wildly and shouting to encourage his already eager comrades.
Highlights Henry's role as a flag bearer and his fervent leadership during the charge.
“The youth’s friend went over the obstruction in a tumbling heap and sprang at the flag as a panther at prey. He pulled at it and, wrenching it free, swung up its red brilliancy with a mad cry of exultation.”
Wilson vaulted the fence, seized the enemy flag, and raised it triumphantly with a shout.
Describes the capture of the Confederate flag, a key moment of victory.