Stories by American Authors, Volume 8 by Various

Description

Stories by American Authors, Volume 8 is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. This anthology features contributions from various authors, including The Brigade Commander by J. W. De Forest, which centers around military characters and their experiences during a battle, reflecting themes of duty, honor, and personal conflict. Each story offers a glimpse into American life and values at the time, showcasing a range of narrative styles and subjects. The beginning of The Brigade Commander introduces Colonel Waldron, a skilled but morally complex military leader who has earned the admiration of his regiment through victories in battle. The narrative unfolds on the eve of an engagement, capturing the tension among the soldiers and weaving in the personal dynamics of their relationships, particularly that of Adjutant Wallis and Colonel Gildersleeve, who discuss Waldron’s questionable past as a reformed clergyman. As the story progresses, we see the preparations for battle intermixed with Waldron’s inner struggles and the effect of past decisions on his present leadership. This opening lays the groundwork for the exploration of complex themes as the characters prepare to face the impending conflict on the battlefield. (This is an automatically generated summary.)