The Released Rebel Prisoner. (June, 1865.)
The story revolves around a former Confederate soldier who has been released from prison after the war's end. He returns to his home in the South, where he struggles to adjust to civilian life and reconcile with his past actions. As he navigates this new reality, he grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and disillusionment. His experiences during the war have left him changed, and he finds it difficult to reconnect with his family and community. The narrative explores themes of identity, morality, and redemption in the aftermath of conflict. The protagonist's journey serves as a commentary on the complexities of human nature and the challenges of rebuilding society after trauma.
By Herman Melville · First published 1865 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, War · 546 words
First lines
Armies he's seen -- the herds of war, But never such swarms of men As now in the Nineveh of the North -- How mad the Rebellion then!
And yet but dimly he divines The depth of that deceit, And superstition of vast pride Humbled to such defeat.
What this Textopian page supports
The Released Rebel Prisoner. (June, 1865.) is listed on Textopian as a short story by Herman Melville, dated 1865 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Herman Melville
- Date: 1865 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, War, Tragedy, Southern Gothic
- Length: 546 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Released Rebel Prisoner. (June, 1865.) by Herman Melville
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Historical — The content reflects historical events and figures from the American Civil War era.
- War — Themes of war, soldiers, and battles are central to the narrative.
- Tragedy — The work explores themes of loss, defeat, and the emotional aftermath of war.
Tags
American Literature · Civil War Era · Historical Fiction · Rebellion · Prisoners of War · Freedom · Slavery · Racism · Social Commentary · Politics · War · Conflict