When one is faced with the ultimate test of courage, what motivates a teammate to put aside his doubts and fears, so he can help his team win the battle and capture the flag?
Stephen Crane’s The Red Badge of Courage is of the most enlightening portrayals of the precise kind of motivation it takes for a man to put aside his most daunting fears for the benefit of his team.
Crane’s novel focuses on the plight of young Union soldier named Henry Fleming. Henry’s primary motivation for enlisting was his vision of grandeur; he lusted for the opportunity to return to his hometown a war hero and the recipient of a welcome home parade.