On the Slain Collegians (Poems from Battle Piece
The poems explore themes of death, loss, and the human cost of war. They are written from a perspective that critiques the romanticization of battle and the glorification of violence. The speaker reflects on the futility of war and the devastating impact it has on individuals and society.
By Herman Melville · First published 1866 · Genre: Poetry, War Literature, Elegy · 573 words
First lines
Youth is the time when hearts are large, And stirring wars Appeal to the spirit which appeals in turn To the blade it draws.
If woman incite, and duty show (Though made the mask of Cain), Or whether it be Truth's sacred cause, Who can aloof remain That shares youth's ardor, uncooled by the snow Of wisdom or sordid gain?
What this Textopian page supports
On the Slain Collegians (Poems from Battle Pieces) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Herman Melville, dated 1866 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Herman Melville
- Date: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War Literature, Elegy, Historical, Social Commentary
- Length: 573 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as meter, rhyme, and imagery.
- War Literature — The themes and content focus on the experiences and consequences of war, particularly the Civil War.
- Elegy — The poem mourns the loss of young lives and reflects on the tragedy of their deaths.
- Historical — The poem references historical events and figures, providing a reflection on a specific period in history.
Tags
War Poetry · American Literature · Civil War Era · Poetry Collection · Battlefield Imagery · Mourning and Loss · Grief and Sorrow · Historical Context · Symbolism · Imagery and Symbolism · Death and Mortality · Human Cost of War