Sean Heartman

Dr. Wingmire

Advanced Placement United States History

December 4, 2022

Literature of the Civil War

The American Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865, had a profound impact on

American literature. The war inspired a new wave of literature that explored themes of

patriotism, sacrifice, and the human toll of war. One of the most famous literary works of the

Civil War era is "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe. Published in 1852, the novel

was a powerful indictment of slavery and helped to galvanize public opinion against the

institution. It became an international bestseller and is widely credited with helping to bring

about the Civil War.

During the war itself, many writers turned their attention to the conflict and its impact on

society. One notable example is "The Red Badge of Courage" by Stephen Crane. Published in

1895, the novel is a realistic portrayal of the experiences of a young soldier in the Union Army.

It explores the psychological trauma of war and the disillusionment that many soldiers felt after

witnessing the horrors of battle.

Another important work from this period is "The Civil War Diary of Sarah Morgan" by

Sarah Morgan Dawson. The diary provides a firsthand account of life in the South during the

war, including the impact of Union blockades on daily life and the devastation wrought by

Sherman's march through Georgia.

Poetry also played a significant role in the literature of the Civil War. The most famous

poet of the era was Walt Whitman, whose collection "Leaves of Grass" includes several poems
inspired by the war, including "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd" and "O Captain! My

Captain!" Other notable poets of the era include Emily Dickinson, who wrote several poems

about the war and its aftermath, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, whose poem "Paul Revere's

Ride" was widely read and celebrated as a symbol of American patriotism. The literature of the

Civil War also reflected the broader social and political changes that were taking place in the

United States at the time. The war helped to redefine American identity and gave rise to a new

sense of nationalism and patriotism. At the same time, the conflict also exposed the deep racial

and economic divisions that existed in American society and raised important questions about

the nature of freedom and democracy.

In conclusion, the literature of the Civil War era played a significant role in shaping

American culture and identity. It provided a powerful commentary on the human toll of war and

helped to galvanize public opinion against the institution of slavery. The writers of this period

explored complex themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the meaning of freedom and democracy,

leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and challenge readers today