How Does Henry Fleming Change In The Red Badge Of Courage

In Stephen Crane’s Red Badge of Courage, Henry Fleming evolves from an anti-hero to a hero. The biggest difference between an anti-hero and a hero is motivation. Towards the beginning of the novel in Fleming’s inexperienced state, his goal was to become a respected soldier, but later in the novel as his motivations change, his goal became to protect his regiment with his life. Fleming’s new, heroic motivations require him to develop new characteristics. Henry Fleming evolves from an anti-hero to a hero by becoming brave, altruistic, and influential.

First, Fleming shows bravery by risking his life on the battlefield. When he first joined his regiment, he was a milksop. For example, he ran away from his second battle thinking his regiment was bound to lose. But after a motivational journey, Fleming realizes his mistakes and becomes determined to fight the enemy with courage. “Regardless of the vindictive threats of the bullets, [Fleming] went about coaxing, berating, and bedamning” (Crane, 102). He nearly dies. Fleming let’s out his inner fire as a shield to his fear and becomes one of the most gallant fighters in his regiment. Fleming’s evolution to a brave soldier is a major factor in his transformation to a hero.

After a series of selfish action such as fleeing from battle and ditching an old man to die, Fleming realizes the war is much bigger than himself; he becomes motivated to sacrifice his life for a bigger cause. For instance, Fleming “kept [the flag] near, as if it could be a saver of lives” (Crane, 103). It is risky to be the flag-carrier because of their visibility to the enemies; Fleming still carries the fallen flag because it raises the pride and hope of the regiment. His evolution to a selfless man is a vital step in his transformation to a