The Victor of Antietam. (1862.)
This work is a collection of essays and poems that reflect on the American Civil War. It explores themes of patriotism, duty, and the human cost of war. The writing style is lyrical and philosophical, with a focus on the moral complexities of conflict. The author critiques the romanticization of war and instead presents a nuanced view of its effects on individuals and society.
By Herman Melville · First published 1862 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, War · 647 words
First lines
When tempest winnowed grain from bran; And men were looking for a man, Authority called you to the van, McClellan: Along the line the plaudit ran, As later when Antietam's cheers began.
Through storm-cloud and eclipse must move Each Cause and Man, dear to the stars and Jove; Nor always can the wisest tell Deferred fulfillment from the hopeless knell -- The struggler from the floundering ne'er-do-well. A pall-cloth on the Seven Days fell, Mcclellan -- Unprosperously heroical! Who could Antietam's wreath foretell?
What this Textopian page supports
The Victor of Antietam. (1862.) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Herman Melville, dated 1862 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: 1862 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, War, Biographical, Political
- Length: 647 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Historical — The content references historical events and figures, specifically the Battle of Antietam and General McClellan.
- War — The themes and subject matter revolve around military conflict and battles, particularly the Civil War.
- Biographical — The focus on McClellan's actions and experiences provides a biographical element.
Tags
Historical Fiction · American Civil War · Battlefield Novel · War Literature · Realistic Fiction · 19th Century American Literature · Classic Novel · Literary Fiction · Historical Drama · Military Fiction · Conflict Novel · War Story