The March into Virginia, Ending in the First Man
The narrative follows a group of soldiers from New York who march into Virginia to fight for the Union. They are met with resistance and ultimately defeated at the First Battle of Manassas. The story explores themes of patriotism, duty, and the harsh realities of war.
By Herman Melville · First published 1861 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, War · 341 words
First lines
Did all the lets and bars appear To every just or larger end, Whence should come the trust and cheer? Youth must its ignorant impulse lend -- Age finds place in the rear. All wars are boyish, and are fought by boys, The champions and enthusiasts of the state: Turbid ardors and vain joys Not barrenly abate -- Stimulants to the power mature, Preparatives of fate.
Who here forecasteth the event? What heart but spurns at precedent And warnings of the wise, Contemned foreclosures of surprise?
What this Textopian page supports
The March into Virginia, Ending in the First Manassas. (July, 1861.) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Herman Melville, dated 1861 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: 1861 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, War, Philosophical, Tragedy
- Length: 341 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The March into Virginia, Ending in the First Manassas. (July, 1861.) by Herman Melville
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Historical — The content references a specific historical event, the First Battle of Manassas, providing a historical context.
- War — The themes and imagery revolve around war, battles, and the experiences of soldiers.
- Philosophical — The text explores themes of youth, fate, and the nature of war, prompting philosophical reflection.
Tags
Historical Fiction · American Civil War · War Novel · Military History · Battlefield Description · Realistic Portrayal · Conflict Narrative · Soldier's Perspective · Warfare Tactics · Tactical Analysis · Strategic Planning · Leadership Roles