The Red Badge of Courage

Stephen Crane's Red Badge of Courage (1895) is a psychological study of a young soldier that deals with the true meaning of courage. Henry Fleming enlists himself as a recruit in the American Civil War over his mother's objection. During the battle, he flees into the forest, thinking that saving his life is the best thing. But when his battalion has won, he feels guilty and returns to his unit. After mastering his fear, Henry goes into the final battle as the flag bearer.