A Response to Rechnitz’s “Depersonalization and the Dream in Red Badge of Courage”

A Response to Rechnitz’s “Depersonalization and the Dream in Red Badge of Courage”

When does one truly become a man? In the young solider Henry, we see a man who has thought about war his whole life. In Rschnitz’s essay, we see that although Henry was fearless for moments, in the end he did not achieve manhood. Completely focused on what others think of him, we see a character more shaped by community rather than by being an individual. Henry seeks the praise and approval of man, leading him to become more of a follower than a leader. Thus, I agree with Rechnitz: although Henry does mature, he does not transcend his youthful weakness; he is still vain and self-obsessed, and constantly longs for the praise of others.
How much of an individual can one be while fighting in a war? It is impossible to fight alone and sacrifice is a major goal during war. Therefore, one is expected to take responsibility for his actions during the course of war. As Charles C. Walco...