His 1000 Themes in American History (1)
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Baruch College, CUNY *
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1000
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History
Date
Apr 3, 2024
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2
Uploaded by PresidentBeaver670
Discussion Questions for Michael Shaara’s The Killer Angels
. Due on Blackboard Thurs. Nov 9 or in class Fri. Nov. 10.
1. What is your reaction to the book? Positive or Negative? Does it glorify war?
"The Killer Angels" neither glorifies war nor denounces it. Instead, it offers a perspective by humanizing the soldiers and portraying the complex human experiences in the context of war. The book highlights the tragedies and suffering that come with armed conflict, emphasizing the need for understanding the human toll of war and the importance of peace. 2. How well does it portray the issues at stake in the war?
It does so through multiple character perspectives, an exploration of complex topics like slavery and states' rights, historical accuracy, a humanizing approach to the characters, and an engaging narrative style. These elements combine to provide readers with a deep understanding of the era's historical, social, and political context. 3. Why did the author choose Lee and Longstreet as Confederate protagonists and Chamberlain and Buford as Union?
The author chose Robert E. Lee and James Longstreet as Confederate protagonists and Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain and John Buford as Union protagonists based on their historical significance in the Battle of Gettysburg. Lee represents the Confederate leadership, Longstreet reflects internal divisions, Chamberlain exemplifies Union heroism, and Buford highlights the strategic importance of the high ground. 4. There is only one wholly fictional character in the novel. Can you guess which one? Buster Kilrain 5. How accurately does the author depict the various motivations of Civil War soldiers? Why were they fighting? Their reasons for fighting varied, including duty, patriotism, loyalty to leaders, beliefs in states' rights, abolition of slavery, comradeship, survival, and personal, often deeply individual, reasons. The novel effectively conveys the diverse and complex motivations that inspired these soldiers to endure the hardships of the Civil War. 6. What is the significance of the title The Killer Angels?
It draws from a biblical reference and symbolizes the duality of the Civil War. It humanizes the soldiers, emphasizing their individuality and complex motivations, while encapsulating central themes of the novel, such as honor, sacrifice, and the impact of the conflict on the nation.
7. Shaara was a Shakespeare scholar and wrote The Killer Angels with the model of a Shakespeare tragedy in mind. What, in his interpretation, or yours, were the central tragedies (or single tragedy) of Gettysburg?
The central tragedy of the Battle of Gettysburg can be seen as the collision of deeply held convictions and the human cost of war.
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