The Color Sergeant
The narrative centers on a Black soldier from the Tenth Cavalry during the Battle of San Juan Hill in the Spanish-American War. The poem vividly depicts the soldier's bravery and sacrifice as he charges into battle, undeterred by the dangers surrounding him. Despite being wounded and ultimately dying, he remains steadfast in his duty, embodying courage and loyalty. The soldier's actions are highlighted against the backdrop of racial prejudice, emphasizing the contrast between his noble spirit and the societal disdain for his race. His death is portrayed with a sense of dignity, as he faces his end with honor, presenting arms to a higher power. The work reflects themes of valor, sacrifice, and the struggle for recognition in a racially divided society, celebrating the soldier's heroism while critiquing the injustices faced by Black individuals. The imagery evokes the brutality of war and the profound sense of duty that transcends racial barriers, ultimately portraying the soldier as a tragic yet heroic figure.
By James Weldon Johnson · First published 1920 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, War Literature · 212 words
First lines
(On an Incident at the Battle of San Juan Hill)
Under a burning tropic sun, With comrades around him lying, A trooper of the sable Tenth Lay wounded, bleeding, dying.
First in the charge up the fort-crowned hill, His company's guidon bearing, He had rushed where the leaden hail fell fast, Not death nor danger fearing.
He fell in the front where the fight grew fierce, Still faithful in life's last labor;
What this Textopian page supports
The Color Sergeant is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Weldon Johnson, dated 1920 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Weldon Johnson
- Date: 1920 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical Fiction, War Literature, African American Literature, Social Commentary
- Length: 212 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Color Sergeant by James Weldon Johnson
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Historical Fiction — The poem reflects on a historical event, the Battle of San Juan Hill, and the experiences of African American soldiers.
- War Literature — The poem deals with themes of battle, sacrifice, and the realities of war.
- African American Literature — The poem addresses the racial identity and struggles of Black soldiers in a historical context.
Tags
American Literature · Classic Novel · Historical Fiction · Racial Tensions · Social Commentary · Coming of Age · Identity Crisis · Southern Gothic · African American Experience · Jim Crow Era · Racism and Prejudice · Violence and Abuse