~ A Novel Study ~
The Red Badge
Of Courage
By Stephen Crane
A Novel Study
By Nat Reed
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Table of Contents
Suggestions and Expectations ..…………………………….…..……… 3
List of Skills ….……………………………….……………………………
4
Synopsis / Author Biography …..………………………………………
5
Student Checklist …………………………………………………………
6
Reproducible Student Booklet ..…………………………………………
7
Answer Key ...……………………………………………………………… 62
About the author: Nat Reed has been a member of the teaching
profession for more than 30 years. He is presently a full-time instructor at
Trent University in the Teacher Education Program.
Copyright © 2013 Nat Reed
All rights reserved by author.
Permission to copy for single classroom use only.
Electronic distribution limited to single classroom use only.
Not for public display.
2
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Suggestions and Expectations
This 67 page curriculum unit can be used in a variety of ways. Each chapter of the
novel study focuses on two chapters of The Red Badge of Courage and is comprised
of four different activities:




Before You Read
Vocabulary Building
Comprehension Questions
Language and Extension Activities
A principal expectation of the unit is that students will develop their skills in
reading, writing, listening and oral communication, as well as in reasoning and critical
thinking.
Links with the Common Core Standards (U.S.)
Many of the activities included in this curriculum unit are supported by the
Common Core Standards. For instance the Reading Standards for Literature,
Grade 5, makes reference to
a) determining the meaning of words and phrases. . . including figurative language;
b) explaining how a series of chapters fits together to provide the overall
structure;
c) compare and contrast two characters;
d) determine how characters … respond to challenges;
e) drawing inferences from the text;
f) determining a theme of a story . . . and many others.
Students can work on the activities at their own pace. Every activity need not be
completed by all students. A portfolio cover is included as well as a Student
Checklist.
Themes which may be taught in conjunction with the novel include the American Civil
War, courage and sacrifice, leadership, manhood, self-preservation, perseverance,
overcoming adversity, personal growth, facing one’s fears.
3
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
List of Skills
Vocabulary Development
1. Locating descriptive words / phrases
2. Listing synonyms/homonyms
3. Identifying / creating alliteration
4. Use of capitals and punctuation
5. Identifying syllables
6. Identify personification.
7. Working with anagrams.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Use of singular / plural nouns
Listing compound words
Identifying parts of speech
Determining alphabetical order
Identification of root words
Identify/create similes
Setting Activities
1. Summarize the details of a setting
Plot Activities
1. Complete a time line of events
3. Identify the climax of the novel.
4. Five W’s Chart
2. Identify conflict in the story
Character Activities
1. Determine character traits
2. Protagonists
3. Relating personal experiences
4. Comparing two Characters
Creative and Critical Thinking
1.
2.
3.
4.
Research
Write a newspaper story
Write a letter to a friend
Complete an Observation Chart
5.
6.
7.
8.
Conduct an interview
Write a description of personal feelings
Write a book review
Complete a KWS Chart
Art Activities
1. A Storyboard
2. Create a collage
3. Design a cover for the novel
4. Design an Information Card
4
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Synopsis
Written by Stephen Crane at the age of twenty-one, The Red Badge of Courage is
one of the greatest war novels of all time – so groundbreaking that critics consider it
to be the first work of modern American fiction. Although Crane never witnessed
warfare, The Red Badge of Courage is a realistic and terrifying account of the Civil
War and the fear that a young soldier must face on the battlefield as well as within
himself. [The Publisher]
Check out the clips for The Red Badge of Courage
– movie and book trailers - on YouTube
Author Biography – Stephen Crane
Stephen Crane (1871 – 1900) was born in New Jersey
and was the last of fourteen children. While The Red
Badge of Courage is considered Crane’s masterpiece,
he is also known for another brilliant yet grim work
of fiction, Maggie, A Girl of the Streets (1893), as
well as his poetry and journalism. Crane moved to
Europe in 1897 and died in Germany at the age of
twenty-nine from tuberculosis. [Aladdin Books]
5
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Student Checklist
Student Name:
Assignment
Grade / Level
6
Comments
The Red Badge
Of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Name:
7
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 1 - 2
Before you read the chapter:
The protagonist in most novels features the main character or “good guy”. The
protagonist of The Red Badge of Courage is Henry Fleming, an eighteen year old
soldier fighting in the American Civil War. Think back on some of your favorite characters
from past novels you have read or movies you’ve seen. What do you think makes for an
especially interesting protagonist?
Vocabulary:
Choose a word from the list to complete each sentence.
resolutely
lurid
monotonous
impregnable
elaborate
persistent
disdain
intimate
intricate
vindication
extravagant
skedaddle
1.
The convict received complete ________________ when the jury declared him
innocent of all charges.
2.
Working on an assembly line in McGruger’s factory was so _______________ that
an eight hour shift seemed to go on forever.
3.
Her quilt pattern was so ________________ that it took several weeks to
complete.
4.
My aunt considered the horror movie to be very _____________ and in extremely
bad taste.
5.
When the farmer caught us in his garden, we all decided it would be best to
___________________.
8
6.
Edinburgh Castle was thought to be ________________ by the Scots.
7.
Buying her a diamond necklace was considered by many to be a very
_______________ act.
8.
Most _________________ did he deny the serious accusations made against him.
9.
There must be a good deal of trust in a relationship before two people can become
______________ friends.
10.
Most inventors agree that one must be very _______________ in order to achieve
final success.
11.
The thieves came up with quite an _____________ scheme for breaking into the
mansion.
12.
Mr. Burns treated all of his employees with ______________ and disrespect.
Questions
1. It isn’t until well into the novel that we learn the name of the protagonist. Until then,
the author simply refers to him as “the youth”. Why do you think he does this?
Good to Know
In another popular American novel, Sounder, by William H. Armstrong, the author
does not reveal the name of the protagonist for the entire novel, simply referring to
him as “the boy”.
2. Describe the setting at the beginning of Chapter One.
3. Describe the source of the turmoil in Henry’s mind during the first two chapters.
What would you say is his chief concern as he thinks about going into battle?
9
4. Investigate: There are a number of military terms in the first few chapters of the
novel. Using resources in your school /classroom library or on the Internet, define
the following terms:
a pickets
b cavalry
c
infantry
d regiment
e brigade
f
pontoon
bridge
5. Describe how his mother’s reaction to his enlistment in the army had been a
disappointment to him.
6. Henry found camp life in the army to be very monotonous.
T or F
7. Why do you think the tall man’s serene unconcern dealt Henry a measure of
confidence?
8. Describe the general reaction of the soldiers to the soldier trying to steal a horse
from the farm girl. What do you think prompted them to react in this manner?
10
Activities
A. Rank and File.
A number of army ranks are mentioned in The Red Badge of Courage. Soldiers like
Henry, soon understand the significance of different army ranks, but for the general
public, they can be quite confusing. Using resources in your school library or on the
Internet, arrange the following army ranks in order, from the least to the greatest:
major
private
general
corporal
colonel
sergeant
lieutenant
captain
B. Personification
is giving human qualities to something that is not human. The
first paragraph of the novel provides the reader with at least two examples of
personification: “…the army awakened, and began to tremble with eagerness…” The
army reminds the reader of a person – awakening and trembling. Later in the paragraph
the author writes, “… and at night when the stream had become of a sorrowful
blackness…” Here the stream is described as being sorrowful.
a) Why do you think personification is a literary device used by many authors?
b) Create your own example of personification.
c) Bonus: Keep your eyes open for another example of personification. When you find
one, come back to this page and record it below. (There are dozens in the novel.)
11
C. Anagrams
An anagram is a word that is formed by changing the order of the letters of another word.
For example, the letters in the word PAN can also form the word NAP. Follow these
directions to form the anagrams:
a) read the clue in the right-hand column.
b) Using the word in the left-hand column move the letters around in any order, but you
must use all the letters.
Each of the words in the left-hand column are found in the 1st chapter of our novel.
Word
Anagram
enlist
words
rope
pride
shoes
sharp
Clue
Hear.
A weapon.
Tiny opening on the surface of one’s skin.
Levered.
One often sees these on a lawn or garden.
Musical instruments.
D. Research – Famous General of the American Civil War
In Chapter Two the author mentions the great French general, Napoleon Bonaparte.
The American Civil War also produced its share of great and famous generals – in both
the Union (North) and Confederate (South) armies. From the list below select one
general. Using resources in your school library or on the Internet, investigate the general
of your choice and describe four interesting facts about the general and/or his
accomplishments during the war to share with your colleagues. With your teacher’s
permission you may choose a general not included on this list.
Union Army
Confederate Army
Ulysses S. Grant
George McClelland
Ambrose Burnside
George Armstrong Custer
John Reynolds
Robert E. Lee
Stonewall Jackson
J.E.B. Stuart
James Longstreet
A.P. Hill
12
E. Storyboard
A storyboard is a series of pictures that tell about an important event in a story. A
storyboard can tell the story of only one scene – or the entire novel.
Complete the storyboard below illustrating the events described in the first two chapters
of The Red Badge of Courage. You may wish to practice your drawings on a separate
piece of paper.
1
2
3
4
5
6
13
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapters 3 - 4
Before you read the chapter:
The actor, John Wayne, once said, “Courage is being scared to death … and saddling up
anyway”. How would you define courage?
Vocabulary:
Many of the words in this Crossword Puzzle are from Chapters 1 to 4. Use the words in
the box to complete the puzzle.
1
10
15
2
3
4
5
6
11
12
13
14
16
17
18
7
21
23
24
25
26
28
29
27
30
31
32
35
36
37
33
38
41
44
45
48
34
39
40
43
9
19
20
22
8
46
49
51
50
52
53
14
47
42
Down
1. The sound of a freight train.
2. An American League baseball team.
3 Henry’s was 18.
4. The tall soldier’s surname.
5. Not off.
6. Mountains of Russia.
7. Fourth planet from the sun.
8. French word for name.
9. Military units consisting of 2 or 3
battalions.
10. Armed conflict.
11. Unhappy.
15. An army unit comprised of about
3,000 to 5,000 troops.
16. Urge to action.
17. An alloy of iron and other elements.
19. A girl’s name.
21. A soldier fighting for the south.
23. President of the Union during the
Henry’s fighting days.
24. Capital of the CSA.
25. Henry’s surname.
30. __ big __ an ox.
31. Attack.
34. Physician.
36. A military unit of 62-190 soldiers.
37. Gets closer to.
38. Shouted.
42. Needed by a cavalry trooper.
45. Vendetta.
46. Long strip of cloth often worn
around the waist.
47. A television award.
49. Emergency Room.
FLEMING
RIFLE
SKILLS
INL
SOMEONE
NEARS
FLED
WAR
NOM
TIGERS
ER
RTE
COMPANY
BRIDGES
AS
LINCOLN
UDDER
IMPULSE
ASSULT
ARMING
SOD
YIELD
UNION
ON
CLAM
BRIGADE
SASH
REGIMENTS
EACH
STEEL
STEAK
MT
Across
1. Connecticut.
4 In the military it is when soldiers follow
one behind the other.
10. The capital of the northern states
during the Civil War.
12. A language of Papua New Guinea.
13. A summer month.
14. Providing soldiers with guns.
15. Pontoon ___.
18. Abilities.
20. Route.
21. ___chowder.
22. Urge.
24. Long gun.
26. Icelandic National League.
27. Another name for the northern states
during the Civil War.
28. Woody ___.
29. French for lake.
32. A mountain in British Columbia.
33. Finishes.
35. The wealth and resources of a
country.
39. Piece of turf.
40. An urban railway.
41. Per.
43. Groan.
44. Pester.
45. Skedaddled.
46. A cut of beef.
48. “The ___ shriek of shells…”
49. Earned run average.
50. Montana (or mountain).
51. Cow’s mammary gland.
52. An unspecified or unknown person.
53. Give way.
IMPEL
MOAN
CHUG
MARS
SHAMES
WASHINGTON
EMMY
HORSE
AGE
CONFEDERATE
15
RICHMOND
LAC
CT
BANSHEE
URAL
YELLED
FEUD
COLUMNS
ECONOMY
DOC
ALLEN
SAD
EL
CONKLIN
LIL
ENDS
AUG
NAG
RAO
ERA
Questions
1.
The author mentions the soldiers in Chapter 3 carrying
six items, clothing, blankets, haversacks, canteens,
arms and ____________________.
Good to Know
During the American Civil War there were three parts to the armies: infantry,
cavalry and artillery. Generally, the infantry comprised the majority of soldiers
who were principally foot soldiers. Cavalry troopers were mounted on horses.
Members of the artillery were responsible for the large artillery pieces
(cannons) during a battle.
2.
On the morning of the battle in Chapter Three, what made the youth even more
disoriented as he began the day?
3.
Investigate: the youth mentions receding skirmishers. Using resources in
your classroom or school library or the Internet, find out what the particular role
of a skirmisher was in a battle.
4.
What do you think the author means by the following sentence: Their (the
skirmishers) shots into thickets and at distant and at prominent trees spoke to
him of tragedies – hidden mysterious and solemn?
5.
How did the youth rationalize the lieutenant`s behavior when the officer beat
him with a sword and ordered him to stop skulking?
16
6.
Describe the tactics employed by the officers during the battle to keep their men
in line.
7.
Describe the effect that the retreating soldiers had on the protagonist and his
comrades.
Activities
A.
A simile is a comparison using the words “like” or “as”. An example from Chapter
Four is “A shell screaming like a storm banshee…”
What two things are being compared in this example?
Invent your own similes comparing the following items with something from your
imagination:
a) the sound of a herd of stampeding elephants
b) the wail of a baby raccoon
Bonus: Keep your eye open for another example of a simile as you read the novel.
When you find one, remember to come back and enter it here
17
B.
Choose ten words from these chapters with two or more syllables. Indicate the
syllables by drawing a line between each syllable. Example: good / bye.
C. Collector’s Cards
Sports Cards have been a very popular collector’s item for a
number of years. A Willie Mays 1952 Topps rookie card is
worth $3000 today.
Wouldn’t it be great if a series of collectors cards were issued
celebrating some of the heroes of the American Civil War?
Design a card for a hero of your choice from either the Union
or Confederate army (or the civilian population). Possibilities
include: Joshua Chamberlain, Nathan Bedford Forrest,
Tom Custer, J.E.B. Stuart, Clara Barton, Philip Kearny,
William Jackson or another approved by your teacher. The
front should feature a colored picture of your hero, and the
back should include at least four fascinating facts about him or her.
18
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 5 - 6
Before you read the chapter:
“A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer.” Ralph
Waldo Emerson. In the coming chapter Henry performs quite heroically for quite some
time. What do you think Ralph Waldo Emerson meant by the above quote? Do you agree
with him? Why or why not?
Vocabulary:
In each of the following sets of words, underline the one word that does not belong. Then
write a sentence explaining why it does not fit.
1.
prominence
eminence
fen
height
2.
annihilate
destroy
gesticulate
ruin
3.
treacherous
persistent
tenacious
dogged
4.
exaggerate
accumulate
embellish
magnify
19
5.
superficial
profound
deep
sagacious
6.
gratification
delight
enjoyment
chastisement
7.
formidable
pleasant
menacing
frightful
Questions
Cloze Call
Complete the following exercise filling in the correct words from the Word Box.
brotherhood
lieutenant
gratification
general
swearing
race
circus
battery
wounded
shoot
supports
collar
captain
eyeballs
rifle
flags
brown
line
exhaustion
death
repulsed
smoke
dejection
roar
While waiting for the battle to begin, Henry remembered waiting for arrival of the
____________ parade when he was a small boy. Suddenly, across the
____________-infested field came a ____________ swarm of men. A ____________
rode up and told the colonel that his men had to hold the enemy back. The colonel
told his men not to ____________ until he told them to. As the battle began Henry felt
a subtle battle ____________ born of smoke and the danger of ____________. He
then felt that his ____________ were about to crack like hot stones and a burning
____________ filled his ears. The tall man was ____________ in a loud voice. A
soldier who had tried to run away was stopped by the ____________, who seized him
by the ____________. The ____________ in the youth’s company had been killed
early in the battle. Finally the enemy’s charge was ____________ and the rebels fled.
20
From a position in the rear a ____________ was lobbing shells over them. A small
procession of ____________ men were now heading toward the rear. The sight of his
army’s ____________ gave the youth a thrill.
Surviving the battle gave the youth a deep sense of ____________, but when he and
his comrades realized the enemy was attacking again, a feeling of ____________
swept through the ranks. The men began to complain that they had received any
____________. The youth found himself reeling from ____________. Finally, he
threw down his ____________ and ran like a rabbit. He thought of his retreat as a
____________ in which he had to outrun his fellow-soldiers. When he finally stopped
running and was able to listen in on the words of one of his generals, he realized that
his comrades had held the ____________ after all and were victorious.
Activities
A.
Place the following words from these chapters in alphabetical order.
loaded
life
lieutenant
like
mislaid
looked
left
fierce
last
leaves
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10
21
B.
The word “felt” can be used as a noun or a verb, depending on the
sentence. Use your imagination and write sentences to illustrate how this
word can be used as both a noun and a verb.
FELT
Noun
Verb
C.
Interview at least three other students for their views of this novel
so far. (Try to get both positive and negative comments.) Write a brief
report putting these views together.
22
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 7 - 8
Before you read the chapters:
Abraham Lincoln (who was President of the United States during the events described
in this novel) is regarded by many historians as the one of America’s greatest historical
characters. Many of his quotations have been passed down to us. One of his most
famous quotes is as follows: “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to
test a man’s character, give him power.” Do you agree or disagree with this quote.
Explain your answer.
Vocabulary:
Draw a straight line to connect the vocabulary word to its synonym or definition.
Remember to use a straight edge (like a ruler).
1. annihilation
2. imbecile
3. conciliate
4. intricate
5. trepidation
6. obscurity
7. obstinate
8. hysterical
9. sardonic
10. yokel
a. reconcile
b. fearfulness
c. stubborn
d. uncontrollable emotion
e. destruction
f. sarcastic
g. country bumpkin
h. idiot
i. murkiness
j. complicated
23
Questions
Indicate whether the following statements are True or False.
1. The youth thought that his comrades who remained in the
battle were fools.
2. The youth fled into the woods in Chapter Seven to escape a
company of soldiers who were looking for him.
3. As the youth made his way through the swamp he was startled
by a black bear that had been injured by a mortar shell.
4. The dead soldier that the youth came upon in the forest had
been dead for less than half an hour.
5. Near the beginning of Chapter Eight the youth finds himself
running toward the sound of musket fire.
6. The youth noticed that the firing of muskets in the battle
produced a wall of grey smoke.
7. When the youth came upon the wounded men streaming to the
rear, he was astonished that the wounded men made not a
sound of complaint despite their desperate wounds.
8. The song that the youth sang was a version of “Sing a Song of
Sixpence”.
9. All of the wounded soldiers were very impressed by the
courage and unselfishness of the wounded officer who was being
carried by two privates.
10. As Chapter Eight ends, the youth is completely rattled when
someone asks him where he was wounded.
Good to Know
The American Civil War was one of the bloodiest conflicts
in history. From 1861 – 1865 more than 620,000 soldiers
died in this brutal war. This compares to about 405,000
American soldiers who died in World War II. Altogether
The Union army totaled more than 2.2 million and the
Confederates fielded an army of more than one million
men. This is especially amazing considering the population
of the entire United States was only about 31 million at that time.
24
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
Activities
A.
Write the plural of the following nouns from these chapters. Careful – you may wish
to consult a dictionary for some of these words.
Singular Noun
army
man
leaf
complexity
chain
foot
body
person
company
tooth
Plural Noun
B. Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States,
and was in office during the events described in The Red
Badge of Courage. Many Americans regard President Lincoln
as one of the greatest Presidents in the history of the country.
Lincoln was President during the one of the most tumultuous
times in America, and managed to guide the nation through the
war before being assassinated in 1865. Using resources in your
school library or on the Internet, investigate this great man and
record three additional interesting facts about his life and accomplishments.
25
C.
Rewrite the following sentences putting in the correct capitalization and
punctuation.
was henry fleming from the state of new york
marcy agnes and terra decided to attend a basketball game at madison square garden
why don’t you ask aunt teresa if you can visit her in toronto after christmas
D.
Copy out any three sentences from these chapters and underline the nouns.
26
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 9 - 10
Before you read the chapters:
Describe how you would be feeling if you were Henry Fleming at this point in the story.
Vocabulary:
Choose a word from the list that means the same or nearly the same as the underlined
word(s).
reproach
harangue
1
2
reiterate
contempt
contorted
plaintive
prolonged
vigilance
The college extended the due date for his application fee
until Thursday.
The whole team treated the assistant coach with disdain.
3
They twisted the pretzel into the most unusual shape
imaginable.
4 A good sentry must have a great deal of diligence when
on duty.
5 They announced the coronation of the queen with great
fanfare.
6 The lecture that the old man delivered was quite offensive
and undeserved.
7 The mournful cry of the wounded deer could be heard
throughout the forest.
8 Why did Mr. Kelly rebuke Justin in front of the whole
class?
9 Much honor and respect is attached the responsibilities of
a judge.
10 You may have to repeat your instructions to us.
27
dignity
proclaimed
Questions
1.
Describe Henry’s emotional state as Chapter Nine begins.
2.
Henry equates a red badge of courage with a _________________.
3.
Near the beginning of Chapter Nine, Henry is astonished to come across his
old friend, Jim ________________.
4.
Why do you think Jim refused Henry’s help when he was so badly wounded?
5.
Foreshadowing is a literary device where the author provides a hint of
something to come in the story. Before Jim’s death the author provides clues of
the man’s impending fate. Give an example of this.
6.
What was it that motivated the tattered man to survive his injuries?
7.
How did the tattered man find out that he had been wounded?
8.
How did the author reveal the seriousness of the tattered man’s wounds toward
the end of Chapter 10?
28
Activities
A. Homonyms
These chapters include a number of examples of words that have homonyms – great –
grate and no – know are just two examples. Two words are homonyms if they are
pronounced or spelled the same way but have different meanings.
Think of two more examples of homonyms and use each in a sentence showing the
meaning of each word quite clearly.
Example 1
Homonyms
1
Sentence
2
Example 2
Homonyms
1
Sentence
2
B. Talk Show
With two or three other students prepare to participate in a television
talk show featuring characters from Chapters 1 - 10. Choose an
interesting character from the book (it doesn’t necessarily have to be
Henry). Prepare 5 or 6 questions to ask and possible answers.
29
C.
What’s It All About, Henry?
The author mentions a number of interesting topics to this
point in the novel: American Civil War, Civil War
weapons (rifles, swords, artillery), Civil War uniforms
and flags, technology of the 1860’s (i.e. photography,
transportation, weaponry, medicine). Your task is to
choose an interesting topic related to this novel, then use
the chart below to create a research organizer. Place the particular topic in the middle
balloon, then in the connecting balloons choose subtopics which would help you to do a
thorough investigation of the topic.
For example: if the topics was dogs, subtopics might include diet, lifespan, enemies, etc.
5.
1.
4.
2.
3.
30
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 11 - 12
Before you read the chapter:
Creative chapter titles can really add to a good story. Unfortunately Stephen Crane does
not provide us with titles for the chapters in The Red Badge of Courage. After you have
read Chapter Eleven and Twelve, return to this question and create creative and
appropriate titles for these chapters which reflect the contents.
Chapter 11: _____________________________________________
Chapter 12: _____________________________________________
Vocabulary:
Choose a word from the list to complete each sentence.
exhortations
sublime
calamity
scrutiny
vindication
sinister
forlorn
unprecedented
malediction
invincible
1.
Jeremy was so furious with the opposing pitcher; he racked his brain for an
appropriate ______________ to upset the player’s concentration.
2.
The curator of the museum subjected the valuable urn to a great deal of
_____________ before assigning a value to it.
3.
I felt badly for little Justine, because she looked so ____________ when she was
standing all alone at the back of the classroom.
4.
I took one bite of the delicious apple pie and had to tell Mrs. Henderson that it had
a most ____________ taste.
31
5.
After eating the spinach, Popeye felt _________________.
6.
Everyone considered the loss of the diamond was a _____________ to the royal
family.
7.
Winning eighteen games in a row was completely ________________ for the
Saints.
8.
The basketball team was able to completely tune-out the pointless
_________________ of their loud-mouthed coach.
9.
The center fielder felt a great deal of _______________ after having such a great
season.
10.
The bandit gave a ______________ laugh, then attacked the people waiting at the
bus stop.
Questions
1. Why do you think the youth found it comforting to see his own army retreating?
2. Cite one example from Chapter 11 to prove the youth had a vivid imagination.
3. The youth says at one point that a certain mothlike quality within him kept him in
the vicinity of the battle. What did he mean by this?
4. A metaphor is defined as a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is
representative of something else, especially something abstract. An example from
Chapter 11 is “… some arrow of scorn…” where scorn is likened to an arrow. Use
your imagination to create a sentence containing a metaphor. Your subject is war.
32
5. Describe how the youth sustained his head injury.
b. How might the youth use this injury to his advantage?
6. Henry Fielding belonged to the 304th Regiment from the state of ___________.
7. What kind of reception do you think Henry will receive from his comrades now that
he is back with his old regiment?
Good to Know – The Artillery
Throughout the novel the youth makes mention of the
role that the artillery and artillerymen played in a Civil
War battle. During this great war there were hundreds
of battlefield-tested artillery projectiles, cannons and
shells. There were two types of artillery at this time:
Heavy (or Foot) Artillery and Light (or Field)
Artillery. A standard Field Artillery usually consisted
of six guns. Each gun was pulled by six horses.
33
Activities
A. Horses of the Civil War
Horses played a huge role during the American Civil War.
Horses moved guns and ambulances. Thousands of troopers
in the cavalry depended on their mounts to carry them through
countless battles and skirmishes. It is estimated that more
than one million horses were killed during this devastating war.
The Morgan horse breed was the horse most sought after, but
many other breeds were also utilized. These included Fox trotters, Tennessee Walkers,
American Saddlebreds, Arabs, and Irish Hunters. Using resources in your school
library or on the Internet do some research on one of these breeds, or one approved by
your teacher. Record at least four facts which your fellow classmates will find fascinating.
B.
Copy out any three sentences from these chapters and underline the verbs.
C. Alliteration
Authors often enjoy using alliteration – a literary device where the
author repeats the same sound at the beginning of several words. An
example from Chapter Twelve is “There was a sinister struggle.”
Using your imagination, create your own examples of alliteration from
the following topics. Each example must contain a minimum of three words.
The crackle of a fire in a fireplace
The cheep of a budgie
From your imagination
34
D. A Letter to Mom
Imagine Henry decides to write a letter to his mom to fill her in on some
of the things which have happened to him during the past few days.
Henry finds that writing such a letter is a good way to get things off his
chest and share his experiences with someone that will understand
what he has been going through. Use your imagination to put yourself
in Henry’s place and then create such a letter letting your mom know
something of your experiences since she last saw you. Use your
imagination to describe what has happened in your life during the past
few weeks, mentioning some of the more memorable incidents. Your letter should be at
least a half-page in length and follow the proper format of a friendly letter.
35
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapters 13 - 14
Before you read the chapters:
Chapter Twelve ends in something of a cliffhanger. Who was this mysterious man? Will
Henry meet him again? Who do you think this man might be? Predict what possible role
he might play later in the novel.
Vocabulary:
Solve the following word search puzzle using the words from the Word Box. Remember
– the words can be horizontal, vertical or diagonal, forward or even backward!
Word Box:
SENTINEL
OBLIGED
PASSIVE
PERILOUS
PROSTRATE
CONTEMPLATED
EXERTIONS
PERSISTENT
QUAINT
PETULANT
PEREMPTORY
CONDEMNATION
INSOLENT
DEPRECATING
BLATANT
Q G
C M
P O
E P
T S
U N
L O
A I
N T
T R
D E
F X
P E
W
N
T
N
E
L
O
S
N
I
O
L
R
C E T Q U A I N T E P E
N O T N A T A L B V R W
I B N V E C X S D I O S
O T I T U T Y G F S S U
D M A N E B S T R S T O
M E Q C U M Y I D A R L
N V M O E R P T S P A I
B B A N L R K L J R T R
V N S P A F P G A H E E
C M D F D T M E N T B P
B L I G E D I S D V E C
E N I T N E S O M N B D
E M P T O R Y Z N V C X
36
Questions
1.
The characters of this novel utter a wide assortment unusual expressions,
some of which can be difficult to understand. Put the following expressions from
these chapters in easier to understand English. (You may wish to check the
context before responding).
… he would be a soft target.
I’ll take keer ‘a yeh.
he caught occasional glimpses of
visages that loomed pallid and ghostly…
Yeh don’t holler ner say nothin’
2.
Describe the reception that Henry received when he returned to his regiment.
Good to Know
In Chapter 13 Henry is offered a drink of coffee, which he very much
appreciates. It is estimated that about two-thirds of the soldiers who died during
the Civil War died of disease, not wounds. Many of these deaths were the
result of poor hygiene – i.e. drinking dirty water. Be careful, Henry!
3.
How did the corporal think that Henry received his wound?
4.
What was Henry’s first thought when he awoke the morning after he returned to
his regiment?
37
5.
What do you think the following statement means: He saw that this somber
picture was not a fact of the present, but a mere prophecy?
6.
Describe the changes that Henry had noticed in the loud young soldier.
7.
How did it come about that despite the regiment losing about half its men
during the battle, by the next day they were almost up to full strength?
Activities
A.
Beside each of the following words from these chapters, write its root word.
unsteadily
awakening
perceiving
uplifting
sicknesses
hastily
aching
argument
38
B. Observation Chart
The Red Badge of Courage is a novel filled with sights and sounds – especially
those from nature. Look back over the novel and get as many examples of the five
senses, then list them in the chart below with a brief description about where each
was found. You may wish to choose your examples from one particular scene, or
include a number of different scenes.
Sight
Sound
Touch
39
Taste
Smell
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 15 - 16
Before you read the chapters:
Someone once said, “Everyone tries to define this thing called Character. It's not hard.
Character is doing what's right when nobody's looking.” In the coming chapters Henry
once again faces some severe tests to his character. How might the testing of a person’s
character now and then be a good thing?
Vocabulary:
Write a sentence using the following words. Make sure that the meaning of the word is
clear in your sentence.
lugubrious –
tantalise –
retribution –
40
reverie –
discretion –
consternation -
reverberation -
obliterate -
denunciate -
conciliate -
derision -
41
Questions
1.
What do you think Henry should say if he is questioned about where he was the
previous day?
2.
What does the following sentence mean: He (Henry) had performed his
mistakes in the dark, so he was still a man?
3.
Why might it be regarded as ironic that as Henry regarded the terror-struck
faces he felt a scorn for them?
4.
How had being in possession of his friend’s packet of letters given him a sense
of power?
5.
What literary device is the following sentence an example of: The guns were
roaring without an instant’s pause for breath? __________________________
6.
What literary device is the following sentence an example of: This noise,
following like the yelpings of eager, metallic hounds? ____________________
7.
Describe how the sarcastic man made Henry feel badly when they were
marching along together.
42
Activities
A.
Find three examples of the following parts of speech from these chapters.
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
B. Conflict
We have already read about a number of important conflicts in this novel.
Conflict is often an important element in a good story. There are
generally three types of conflict: person against person; person
against self; and person against nature. Find two examples of conflict
in The Red Badge of Courage, and tell which type of conflict each is.
1
2
43
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 17 - 18
Before you read the chapters:
Predict how you think Henry will conduct himself in his next battle.
Vocabulary:
Choose a word from the list that means the same or nearly the same as the underlined
word(s).
exasperation
interminable
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
annihilate
incredible
contempt
gesticulate
dignity
remonstrance
No one expected the Union army to destroy the
Confederates at the Battle at Gettysburg.
Mrs. O’Connor certainly conducts herself with a great deal
of poise and style.
The odd arrangement of players during the faceoff
aroused the curiosity of the opposing coach.
The battle was so long Henry thought it was neverending.
Alice’s protest fell on deaf ears.
Fans of the Montreal Canadiens regard the Boston Bruins
with disdain.
Falling into the well and breaking his ankle filled poor
Jimmy with a great deal of frustration.
44
respite
alignment
8
The general began to motion wildly to his troops, trying to
warn them of the impending attack.
9 “We didn’t think we were going to ever get any rest,”
Georgia said.
10 The principal thought it was outlandish that the children
would expect him to believe their wild story.
Questions
1
As the battle starts up again in Chapter 17 the author compares it to animals
tossed for a death struggle into a dark pit. Invent your own creative description of
what such a battle might be compared to.
2. Describe Henry’s conduct during the battle described in Chapter 17.
Good to Know
During the American Civil War the rifle was the most commonly used weapon
on the battlefield, however it was very different than the ones used today. Most
were muzzle-loaders which used a small lead musket ball and black powder.
The single-shot rifles were slow to load and took an average of about 20
seconds to load and fire. The
Springfield Rifle Musket was one
of the most popular rifles in use.
3. Near the end of Chapter 17 a soldier makes a very sexist and offensive remark.
What was it?
4. Describe the fate of Jimmie Rogers.
45
5. Describe what Henry and his comrade overheard the general planning when they
went for water. What was the general’s opinion of Henry’s regiment?
6.
How might the last sentence in Chapter 18 be an example of foreshadowing?
Activities
A.
Try to reassemble the word parts listed below into ten compound words found in
these chapters of The Red Badge of Courage.
out
him
fully
thing
light
some
fore
head
hate
with
any boy
sun cow
1.
6.
2.
7.
3.
8.
4.
9.
5.
10.
46
ram
rod
self
relent
times
less
B. The Five W’s Chart
Choose a major event from the novel and then complete the
following chart with the important details.
What happened?
Who was there?
Why did it happen?
When did it happen?
Where did it happen?
47
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapter 19 - 20
Before you read the chapters:
Who is your favorite character in the novel so far? Why did you select this character?
Vocabulary:
Choose a word from the list to complete each sentence.
prominent
delirium
convulsive
imprecations
accoutrements
ominous
lurid
vindictive
stoic
mortification
1.
It is very important for a poker player to remain __________ at all times, no matter
how good or bad the hand.
2.
The warning we heard on the radio regarding the impending thunderstorm was
very ___________________.
3.
The young girl’s body gave a __________________ jerk before she passed out.
4.
The senator already held a ________________ position in government before her
election.
5.
The captain’s _______________ were both creative and foul.
6.
When my pants split during the assembly, I thought I would die of
__________________.
48
7.
After having a fever for several days, Sydney finally reached a point of
_______________.
8.
Katie can be very _______________ when she feels slighted.
9.
In addition to his rifle, a soldier’s ________________ might weigh as much as
twenty pounds.
10.
The old sergeant’s tales can be quite _______________ when there are no
women or children listening.
Questions
Indicate whether the following statements are True or False.
1. The forest made a tremendous objection, is an example of a simile.
2. As the youth went into battle in Chapter 19, it seemed to him that he
saw everything bold and clear.
3. The regiment’s lieutenant was determined to keep the men moving
during their attack.
4. During a typical attack the men would stop every few paces to fire and
load.
5. When the lieutenant grabbed the youth and told him to “Come on,”
the youth was indignant and told the officer to “Come on yourself, then.”
6. When the sergeant was shot, the youth grabbed for the regiment’s
flag, only to find that the dead sergeant seemed reluctant to release it.
7. The lieutenant was wounded in the ankle.
8. By Chapter 20 Henry had already forgotten about the officer telling
the general that his regiment fought like a bunch of mule drivers.
9. It was remarkable that during the attack described in Chapter 20, the
men of Henry’s regiment did not panic.
10. As Chapter 20 concludes, we find Henry’s regiment gaining the
upper hand in the battle.
49
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
True or
False
Activities
A. A News Report
Imagine you are a newspaper reporter at the time and place of The
Red Badge of Courage. You are asked by your editor to write a short
summary of the adventures described in this novel (to this point) for
your interested readers.
Good to Know
In these chapters Henry’s lieutenant receives a serious wound. Gunshot wounds of
the Civil War were extremely serious, due to the rather poor medical treatment
received as well as the nature of the round musket balls which would do severe
damage to a human body. The most common of the some 60,000 surgeries
performed in the Civil War, for instance, was amputation.
50
B. KWS Chart
Choose a topic which is featured in The Red Badge of Courage (i.e. the Union and
Confederate armies, military weapons of the Civil War, technology of the 1860s, horses,
Civil War uniforms and accoutrements, etc.). In each of the columns below add helpful
details which would help someone who is researching your chosen topic.
Topic:
What I Know
What I want to Learn
51
Possible Sources
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapters 21 - 22
Before you read the chapters:
Many of the issues in this novel are resolved in the coming chapters. Predict how you
think the novel will end.
Vocabulary:
Circle the correct word that best matches the meaning of the underlined word.
1.
In the distance were many colossal noises.
a) sympathetic
2.
c) unassuming
d) unknown
With backward glances of perturbation, they hastened.
a) curiosity
3.
b) enormous
b) humor
c) agitation
d) rudeness
His indignation caused many of the men to learn the sense of his words.
a) fury
b) eloquence
c) laughter
52
d) laziness
4.
Having stirred this prodigious uproar, the brigade came marching out again.
a) loud
5.
b) ghostly
c) stressful
d) astonishing
His emaciated regiment bustled forth with undiminished fierceness.
a) care-worn
6.
b) changed
c) weakened
d) substantial
A formidable line of the enemy came within dangerous range.
a) impressive
7.
b) grief-stricken
c) sizzling
d) shaken
c) meagerly
d) extremely
The regiment bled extravagantly.
a) joyously
b) angrily
Questions
1.
What do you think the author meant by the statement, “They dreaded to be
killed in insignificant ways”? Why do you think a soldier would think this?
2.
In Chapter 21, why was the general upset with the colonel? What did you
personally think of the general’s tirade? Why?
3.
Describe how Henry and his comrades responded to the general’s words to the
colonel.
53
4.
In his conversation with the lieutenant, what two soldiers was the colonel
impressed with?
5.
The youth could see the two flags shaking with laughter,
is an example of personification.
T or F
6.
When it came time for Henry’s regiment to enter the battle
in Chapter 22, they did so with a great deal of enthusiasm.
T or F
7.
When faced with fighting an enemy on an open field, name two ways that the
soldiers would sometimes seek to protect themselves.
8.
As Chapter 22 draws to a close and the battle grows hot for Henry and his
comrades, what is it that strengthens their resolve and keeps them going
despite their obstacles?
9.
The author mentions several times that the lieutenant has a real habit of
cursing nonstop during a battle. Why do you think he does this? (Try to think of
two or three possible reasons.)
Good to Know
We are becoming quite familiar with the author’s mention of
various ranks in the Union Army, all the way from Private
Henry Fleming to the general. As a soldier rose in rank he
was given responsibility for more soldiers under his
command. Usually, a sergeant commanded a squad of 9-10 soldiers; a platoon
of 16-44 soldiers was commanded by a lieutenant; a company of 62-190
soldiers was commanded by a captain. Four to six companies made up a
battalion and was commanded by a lieutenant colonel or colonel. A regiment
was comprised of 3,000 to 5,000 men and was commanded by a general.
54
Activities
A.
Copy out any three sentences from these chapters and underline the adjectives.
B. Comparing Two Characters from the Novel
Using the Venn Diagram below compare Henry with one other character from the novel.
Be sure to include physical traits as well as personality traits. Remember that any
characteristics these two people share should be placed in the middle of the two circles.
Henry
_________
_
55
C. Did You Catch the Flick?
At least two movie versions of The Red Badge of Courage have been
filmed. The first was made in 1951 and starred Audie Murphy (who
interestingly, was the most decorated American soldier of World War
II), A second version was released in 1974, starring Richard Thomas
(of The Waltons television series). Although both versions of the
movie remain faithful in most respects to the characters and plot of the
novel, they do take a few “liberties” as well.
If you get a chance to view the movie version, use the following framework to make a
comparison of the book and movie. Version: _____________________________
Similarities
The Novel
The Movie
Differences
The Novel
The Movie
1
2
3
1
2
3
56
The Red Badge of Courage
By Stephen Crane
Chapters 23 - 24
Before you read the chapters:
Which event in the novel did you enjoy the most? Why?
Vocabulary:
Draw a straight line to connect the vocabulary word to its synonym or meaning.
Remember to use a straight edge (like a ruler).
1.
ominous
2. paroxysm
3. dissection
4. prostrate
5. obdurate
6. sultry
7. exultation
8. pestilential
9. stentorian
10. scrutinize
a. prone
b. loud
c. sweltering
d. examine
e. foreboding
f. rejoicing
g. anatomizing
h. inflexible
i. irritating
j. eruption
57
Questions
1
The climax of a story usually occurs at the most exciting or important point of
the plot. Where do you think the climax of The Red Badge of Courage occurs?
2.
During the battle described in Chapter 23, it might be said that Henry was goaloriented. What would you say his goal was?
3.
Many of the Confederate soldiers retreated from the battle.
4.
Describe how the battle described in Chapter 23 concludes.
T or F
5.
The denouement of a novel is described as that part of every movie or novel
after the big action scene, where things get explained, and the characters tie
up loose ends. Explain how the events of Chapter 24 can be described as the
denouement.
6.
Did you think the ending was effective? Why or why not?
58
Activities
A. A Book Cover
Create a book cover for The Red Badge of Courage. Be sure to
include the title, author, and a picture that will make other students
want to read the novel.
B. Collage
Make a collage from magazine pictures illustrating a scene from the
novel, or events and characters from the entire novel.
C. A Book Review
Now is your chance to share the novel with others. Write a review of
The Red Badge of Courage describing in no more than one
paragraph an outline of the plot, and then in another paragraph how
you enjoyed the novel (or didn’t) and why. (Please don’t give away the
ending!) This review can be posted to a website like www.amazon.com.
59
D.
Lights, Camera, Action!
Suppose Hollywood decided to make The Red Badge of Courage into a full-length
feature movie. Who would star in this exciting project? Now suppose you were asked to
be the casting director for this movie. Who would you cast for the principal roles:
•
Henry –
•
Henry’s mother -
•
Jim Conklin –
•
The Tattered Man –
•
The cursing lieutenant -
•
The colonel –
•
The general –
•
______________ –
•
______________ –
You may wish to choose Hollywood actors for this task, or for some fun, limit your choices
to people in your school (teachers and students). Beside each selection write a brief
explanation for your choice.
Check out some of the clips of scenes from the novel featured on Youtube.
60
E. Sequence Chart
List the main events of The Red Badge of Courage in the order in which they
occurred.
The Red Badge of Courage
First
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
Next
Last
61