WAR by Ellen Glasgow (1913)
The novel explores the experiences of a wealthy Virginia family during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. The story revolves around the struggles of the family's women, particularly the mother and her daughters, as they navigate the challenges of war, loss, and social change. Through their stories, the novel examines themes such as patriotism, loyalty, class, and gender roles, ultimately portraying a nuanced and complex portrayal of the South during this tumultuous period in American history.
By Ellen Glasgow · First published 1913 · Genre: War Poetry, Historical, Tragedy · 177 words
First lines
Ripples of ribbons borne on high, Bloodstains upon a brazen sky; From cannon belching on the plain, Fire that by fire is fought again. A flash where steel by steel is met; A fume of smoke and blood and sweat. Sharp from the smeared and trodden gorse The death-cry of a wounded horse.
Dust of a plain ground into red By armies of majestic dead. Gaunt shadows on the changeless sky, A flock of vultures swarming nigh. 'Mid ashes where a hearth has stood, Children that cry aloud for food. Where green the peaceful highways run, A woman ravished in the sun. And far across the reeking sod A Nation sounding thanks to God.
What this Textopian page supports
WAR is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ellen Glasgow, dated 1913 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ellen Glasgow
- Date: 1913 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: War Poetry, Historical, Tragedy, Realism, Social Commentary
- Length: 177 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for WAR by Ellen Glasgow
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering WAR?
- How does this poem by Ellen Glasgow fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does War Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Lost Nation by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Exiles by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Blockade Runner by Hervey Allen
- The Battle Ground by Ellen Glasgow
- The Russian by Mary Raymond Shipman Andrews
- A Little House In War Time by Egerton Castle
Genres
- War Poetry — The poem vividly describes scenes of battle, bloodshed, and the aftermath of war.
- Historical — The imagery and themes suggest a historical context of warfare and its impact on society.
- Tragedy — The poem highlights the tragic elements of war, including death, suffering, and loss.
- Realism — The detailed and graphic descriptions of war scenes and their consequences reflect a realistic portrayal.
Tags
American Civil War · Historical Fiction · Romance · War Novel · Tragedy · Family Drama · Social Class · Slavery · Racism · Rebellion · Loyalty · Patriotism