Gettysburg. the Check. (July, 1863.)
The novel is a historical fiction account of the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. It explores the psychological and emotional toll on soldiers from both sides, particularly those who are wounded or killed in the battle. The narrative focuses on the experiences of several characters, including a Union soldier and a Confederate officer, as they grapple with the brutal realities of war. Through their stories, the novel examines themes of sacrifice, duty, and the human cost of conflict.
By Herman Melville · First published 1863 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, War · 366 words
First lines
O pride of the days in prime of the months Now trebled in great renown, When before the ark of our holy cause Fell Dagon down -- Dagon foredoomed, who, armed and targed, Never his impious heart enlarged Beyond that hour; god walled his power, And there the last invader charged.
He charged, and in that charge condensed His all of hate and all of fire; He sought to blast us in his scorn, And wither us in his ire. Before him went the shriek of shells -- Aerial screamings, taunts and yells; Then the three waves in flashed advance Surged, but were met, and back they set: Pride was repelled by sterner pride, And Right is a strong-hold yet.
What this Textopian page supports
Gettysburg. the Check. (July, 1863.) is listed on Textopian as a historical account by Herman Melville, dated 1863 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Historical account
- Author: Herman Melville
- Date: 1863 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, War, Religious, Elegy
- Length: 366 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Gettysburg. the Check. (July, 1863.) by Herman Melville
- 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 Gettysburg. the Check. (July, 1863.)?
- How does this historical account by Herman Melville fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Muster Suggested By The Two Days Review At Washington May 1865 by Herman Melville
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Historical — The poem references a specific historical event, the Battle of Gettysburg, and reflects on its significance.
- War — The themes and imagery focus on battle, conflict, and the consequences of war.
- Religious — The poem includes religious imagery and references, such as 'the ark of our holy cause' and 'Dagon,' suggesting a spiritual dimension.
Tags
Historical Fiction · American Civil War · Battlefield Novel · War Literature · Realistic Fiction · Historical Drama · Conflict · Violence · Death · Loss · Patriotism · Nationalism