The Meaning of Stephen Crane's \"A Mystery of Heroism\"
Stephen Crane's short story \"A Mystery of Heroism\" tells the story of a soldier named Fred Collins during the American Civil War. The story follows Collins as he struggles with his own sense of fear and the horrors of battle. Throughout the story, Crane explores the themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the nature of war.
The Plot of \"A Mystery of Heroism\"
The story begins with Fred Collins stationed at his unit's water station. He is thirsty and knows that a well is just a short distance away. Despite the dangers of leaving the safety of the water station, Collins decides to go fetch a bucket of water from the well. He meets up with a group of soldiers who are doing the same thing, and they begin their journey to the well.
The group quickly discovers that the well is located in a nearby field that is under enemy fire. Despite the danger, Collins continues to press on, driven by his thirst. He manages to fill one bucket of water, but as he goes back for a second, he is hit by a bullet and killed.
The Theme of Heroism in \"A Mystery of Heroism\"
Throughout the story, Crane explores the theme of heroism. Collins is not a typical hero. He is not brave, nor does he have any desire to be a hero. Instead, his actions are motivated by his thirst. However, by choosing to risk his life to fetch water for his fellow soldiers, Collins becomes a hero. His actions are selfless and demonstrate the kind of bravery that is often seen in war.
The Sacrifice of Soldiers in \"A Mystery of Heroism\"
Collins' sacrifice also speaks to the sacrifices made by soldiers during war. He gives his life for a simple bucket of water, but in doing so, he stands as a symbol of the many soldiers who gave their lives for their fellow soldiers and their country. The story is a reminder that the sacrifices made in war are often made by ordinary people doing their best in difficult circumstances.
The Horrors of War in \"A Mystery of Heroism\"
The story also explores the horrors of war. The soldiers are in constant danger, and the dangers they face are not always obvious. Collins' death comes as a result of enemy fire, but there is also the danger of disease, hunger, and dehydration. The soldiers are pushed to their limits, and many of them struggle to cope with the horrors that they experience on a daily basis.
Conclusion
Stephen Crane's \"A Mystery of Heroism\" is a powerful short story that explores the themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the nature of war. Through the story of Fred Collins, Crane reminds us of the sacrifices made by soldiers and the horrors that they face. Although Collins may not be a traditional hero, his actions demonstrate the kind of bravery and selflessness that is often seen in wartime. Ultimately, the story stands as a tribute to the thousands of soldiers who gave their lives for their country.
"